Pakistan is preparing to introduce its first satellite-based internet service with Elon Musk’s Starlink expected to commence operations by the end of 2025, according to sources cited by ProPakistani. Starlink has agreed to comply with Pakistan’s laws and regulatory framework and has submitted its registration application to national authorities.
The Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (P-SARB) is finalizing an international satellite regulatory framework that will govern licensing for satellite internet providers. Once completed, Starlink will be formally registered with P-SARB, followed by an operational license issued by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
In support of this process, P-SARB recently held a workshop with satellite companies attended by Federal Minister for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja. Other major industry players such as Shanghai Telecom, Amazon, and OneWeb have expressed interest in launching satellite internet services in Pakistan. However, Starlink is the first to submit a formal application under the emerging regulatory framework.
