Starlink has received approval from Bangladesh’s Investment Development Authority (BIDA) to operate in the country. The company has applied for an NGSO licence, which is expected to be issued soon. While a demonstration of Starlink’s services will take place at the Bangladesh Investment Summit, the commercial launch will take longer.
Starlink has launched its fixed telecommunications services in Oman, enabling high-speed internet access in remote regions with challenging terrain. The service, backed by a Class 1 licence from the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, aims to connect key industries such as oil and gas, tourism, and agriculture, while boosting digital infrastructure.
Key Takeaways: The Sultanate of Oman is set to expand its broadband internet access with the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA)…
SpaceX’s Starlink rollout in Sri Lanka has been suspended due to national security concerns, with the government citing the lack of provisions for legal data interception. The suspension follows a previous TRCSL license and aims to ensure authorities can access communications data when necessary. Starlink hopes to launch in 2025.
Starlink will conduct a demo of its internet services at the Bangladesh Investment Summit on April 9. The event, focused on investment and networking, is expected to attract over 550 foreign investors. Key sectors such as digital economy, textiles, agriculture, and healthcare will be discussed, alongside startup showcase opportunities.
Starlink is set to launch in Pakistan after receiving its license from the PTA, expected within weeks. The company plans to offer internet services via Low Earth Orbit satellites, targeting remote areas. Starlink’s services will be more affordable in Pakistan compared to the US, with ground stations to be set up.
Starlink will demonstrate its internet services at the Bangladesh Investment Summit in April, but the official launch in Bangladesh is still pending. The event will feature over 550 foreign investors and focus on networking, startup investments, and opportunities in key sectors like digital economy, renewable energy, and healthcare.
**Bangladesh Satellite Company Explores Partnership with Starlink to Accelerate Market Entry**
Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL), the country’s exclusive satellite provider, recently held discussions with Starlink officials to explore partnership opportunities aimed at fast-tracking Starlink’s entry into the Bangladesh market in the coming months. The meeting took place on Sunday, as reported by the Daily Star.
BSCL proposed a strategic collaboration, offering services such as sales and marketing, post-sales customer support, distribution of Starlink kits, and revenue collection through its banking channels. Additionally, the proposal includes hosting Starlink’s gateway at BSCL’s ground stations in Gazipur and Betbunia.
The BSCL also highlighted the advantages of its infrastructure for a potential Starlink partnership, including uninterrupted power supply, redundant fiber connections, 24/7 maintenance, and highly secured facilities.
In a related development, Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Prof Muhammad Yunus, held an online meeting with SpaceX and Starlink CEO Elon Musk last month to discuss the possibility of bringing Starlink services to Bangladesh. BSCL’s managing director, Muhammad Imadur Rahman, mentioned that Yunus aims to launch Starlink services by May 2025.
Discussions between BSCL and Starlink have been ongoing since May 2023, with successful tests of Starlink kits conducted in Dhaka, Rangpur, Hatia, and the Bay of Bengal.
On the regulatory front, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) began working on guidelines last year to regulate LEO and MEO satellite broadband service providers, including provisions allowing wholly owned foreign companies to obtain licenses. The Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology has also proposed a 25% rebate on fees for foreign satellite companies partnering with local operators. The first draft of these guidelines was completed in October 2024, but they have yet to be finalized.
Starlink has partnered with Bharti Airtel to enter the Indian market, offering satellite broadband services. The deal is contingent on regulatory approvals. If successful, Starlink could improve connectivity in remote areas, although security concerns about its unauthorized use in illegal activities have been raised.
Bangladeshi firms have partnered with Starlink to establish earth stations across the country, aiming to provide reliable internet, especially in remote areas. The collaboration involves space allocation, construction support, and infrastructure maintenance, with a goal to implement the model within the next 90 days to overcome connectivity challenges.
