Starlink Sets Up Four Gateways to Expand Services in Bangladesh

Starlink Services Bangladesh Ltd has completed the installation of four internet gateways across the country as Elon Musk’s satellite internet venture moves to strengthen its presence in Bangladesh. The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) confirmed the installations during inspections in August, though it could not verify full functionality in the absence of Starlink representatives.

Two gateways have been set up in Kaliakair Hi-Tech Park in Gazipur, while Rajshahi and Jashore host the other two. Local partners reported that commercial traffic began flowing from Kaliakair on August 9 and from Rajshahi and Jashore on August 20. The gateways are operated in collaboration with local technology providers: Felicity IDC Limited (FIDC) is managing the Gazipur and Jashore sites, while Bondstein Technologies oversees Rajshahi. Connectivity support comes from Summit Communications and Fiber@Home.

The rollout follows Starlink’s operating license approval on April 29, with test permissions granted until August 7. BTRC had earlier provided a three-month waiver allowing operations without a gateway, which is usually mandatory. On August 10, Starlink informed the regulator via email that the gateways had been installed, prompting inspections shortly after.

Starlink has also signed reseller agreements with Robi Axiata PLC and Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL). Robi plans to distribute Starlink’s Local Priority and Global Priority packages through its retail and enterprise channels, targeting rural and underserved communities with solutions for e-learning, digital commerce, and connectivity. BSCL, which already manages Bangabandhu-1, signed a $2.5 million deal to procure Starlink hardware and data packages, expanding its service portfolio.

Under the reseller framework, terminals will be imported and sold locally in Bangladeshi currency, with resellers receiving discounts on hardware and services. They will be able to set pricing, directly bill customers, and offer value-added services. Potential markets include banks, hospitals, factories, data centers, maritime and aviation, and media organizations.

With the installation of these gateways and strong partnerships with local firms, Starlink is positioning itself as a key player in Bangladesh’s digital landscape, aiming to extend high-speed satellite internet to enterprises and underserved communities alike.