Pakistan is moving closer to launching commercial satellite internet services as the government prepares a new regulatory framework and licensing system for satellite broadband operators.
The development could pave the way for global satellite internet companies, including Starlink, to begin commercial operations in Pakistan and provide connectivity to remote and underserved areas.
The government is currently working on regulations designed to create a clear framework for satellite communication services while attracting international investment in the country’s digital infrastructure.
Starlink Already Has Provisional Registration
Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, received provisional registration from the Pakistani government in March 2025.
The registration allowed the company to begin planning ground infrastructure and work toward completing the regulatory requirements needed to provide satellite broadband services in Pakistan.
The Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) has also received interest from other international satellite operators.
According to the government, OneWeb, Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology and Sateliot have approached the regulator regarding registration and potential operations in the country.
New Satellite Internet Rules Prepared
Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja told the Senate that satellite broadband has become an important part of Pakistan’s broader digital connectivity strategy.
In a written reply, she said PSARB has prepared the draft Satellite Communications Regulations, while the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has developed a licensing framework for Fixed Satellite Services.
The proposed regulations are intended to establish clear rules for companies seeking to provide satellite-based communication and broadband services in Pakistan.
Amazon Also Planning Satellite Internet
Starlink is not the only major international company looking toward Pakistan’s satellite internet market.
Amazon’s Project Kuiper has separately expressed plans to launch satellite broadband services in Pakistan by the end of 2026.
The company has also indicated plans to establish ground infrastructure, including gateways and points of presence, to support its satellite network.
The potential arrival of multiple satellite operators could increase competition in Pakistan’s broadband market and provide consumers with additional connectivity options.
Satellite Internet Could Improve Remote Connectivity
Satellite broadband could be particularly important for areas where traditional fibre, mobile networks and other forms of internet infrastructure are difficult or expensive to deploy.
The government believes satellite connectivity could help expand internet access in underserved regions while supporting digital services, education, businesses and the wider technology sector.
The entry of international satellite operators could also provide Pakistan with additional broadband capacity as demand for internet services continues to grow.
Government Seeks Investment-Friendly Framework
Shaza Fatima said the proposed licensing framework is being developed in line with international best practices.
The government aims to create a transparent and investment-friendly environment that can attract satellite communication companies while ensuring that their operations comply with Pakistan’s regulatory requirements.
With satellite communication regulations and the Fixed Satellite Services licensing framework moving forward, Pakistan is getting closer to opening its market to commercial satellite broadband.
If the remaining regulatory and licensing requirements are completed, the development could mark a major shift in Pakistan’s internet landscape and bring services such as Starlink and other satellite broadband networks closer to commercial availability.
Also read: Pakistani Authorities Delay Starlink Satellite Internet Approval
