Regulatory delays hold up satellite internet providers’ entry into Pakistan

The entry of global satellite-based internet providers into Pakistan has been delayed due to regulatory hurdles, with several government agencies still working to finalize their respective procedures. 

According to media reports, this delay has left international firms, including Starlink, Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology Limited (SSST), and others, in limbo, as the country’s plans to expand high-speed internet connectivity remain on hold.

According to a member of the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB), five major firms, including Starlink and SSST, have expressed interest in entering the Pakistani market. Other global players, such as OneWeb (Eutelsat Group), Amazon’s Project Kuiper, and Canada’s Telesat, have also shown interest. 

However, Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board has not yet completed the necessary registration framework for low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet services, the first step in the process.

The PSARB official mentioned that the draft regulatory framework is still undergoing stakeholder consultations, and it will take more time to finalize. 

Additionally, officials from the Ministry of IT and Telecom emphasized that the process involves security clearances and inter-agency reviews, which extend beyond licensing.

Industry experts point out that other challenges include the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority’s (PTA) role in issuing telecom licenses, as well as the need for timely import permissions for satellite devices. Without these approvals, companies cannot begin operations. 

Furthermore, there is concern over the absence of a clear security oversight mechanism, which is vital to preventing potential misuse or breaches of the system.