Pakistan Telecommunication Authority Clears Path for Starlink and Satellite Internet Services in Pakistan
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has introduced a new Fixed Satellite Services license framework aimed at enabling satellite internet services to be offered directly to consumers across Pakistan, paving the way for Starlink-style services in the country.
The move is designed to simplify what previously required multiple licenses and create a single regulatory route for nationwide satellite-based internet services.
In practical terms, this means companies using Low Earth Orbit satellites, such as Starlink, Amazon’s Kuiper project, and OneWeb, could eventually offer high-speed internet directly to homes and businesses in Pakistan once all approvals are in place.
PTA said the framework aligns with international best practices and is meant to prepare Pakistan’s telecom sector for the next phase of direct-to-consumer satellite connectivity. This is particularly important for remote and underserved areas where fiber and mobile broadband coverage remain weak or unavailable.
The regulator noted that Pakistan has already taken policy steps through the National Space Policy 2024 and the Space Activities Rules 2024, under which satellite operators will also need registration with the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board before becoming operational.
Satellite-based broadband is already being used in some remote regions, including parts of Shangla, where operators such as PTCL, Supernet, and others are providing connectivity services to banks and institutions.
PTA added that satellite broadband could play a key role in rural connectivity because it requires minimal on-ground infrastructure and can be deployed quickly.
However, the authority also highlighted that high costs remain the biggest challenge, which is why such services are currently more common for enterprise and backhaul use rather than mass consumer rollout.
