Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, announced that Pakistan is in negotiations with Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite-based internet service provider, to bring its operations to the country.
This update was shared during a Senate Standing Committee meeting on IT and Telecommunication, chaired by Senator Palwasha Khan. Khawaja emphasized the government’s commitment to modernizing Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and revealed plans to auction the 5G spectrum in April 2024.
“We are in discussions with Starlink to introduce its services in Pakistan,” Khawaja stated, adding that this initiative aims to tackle ongoing internet connectivity issues, especially in remote and underserved areas.
Internet Disruptions and Economic Impact
The announcement comes amid significant internet disruptions nationwide, which have adversely impacted freelancers, students, and businesses. Industry stakeholders have reported financial losses amounting to billions of rupees, urging swift action to stabilize the country’s digital landscape.
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Challenges in the IT Sector
Khawaja acknowledged that several challenges are hindering the country’s digital progress, including insufficient investment in the IT sector over the past three years and increasing pressure on the internet infrastructure. Officials also pointed to inefficient firewall management and growing data consumption as contributors to slow internet speeds and frequent outages.
Sajjad Syed, Chairman of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), highlighted the critical need for reliable internet services, noting that the IT sector is growing by 30% annually. He called for stronger collaboration between the government and private stakeholders to address these systemic issues.
VPN Licensing and Data Security
During the meeting, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman, Major General (retd) Hafeezur Rehman, outlined plans to introduce a VPN licensing system starting January 1, 2024. This initiative aims to enhance data security by regulating virtual private network services while ensuring uninterrupted operations for businesses relying on VPNs.
However, Senator Afanullah Khan raised concerns about the technical challenges of implementing the licensing system and urged greater policy clarity to minimize disruptions for businesses and internet users.
Starlink’s Potential in Pakistan
Starlink’s satellite-based internet services could be a game-changer for Pakistan, especially for areas with poor connectivity. The technology promises faster and more reliable internet, but its implementation will require addressing regulatory and logistical hurdles.
The government’s ongoing discussions with Starlink reflect its broader strategy to strengthen Pakistan’s digital ecosystem and support the rapidly expanding IT industry.
Government’s Commitment to Digital Modernization
The 5G spectrum auction, scheduled for April 2024, represents a pivotal step in the government’s digital modernization agenda. While industry leaders have welcomed the move, they stress the importance of resolving foundational issues, such as ensuring consistent internet access.
“Reliable internet is not a luxury—it is essential for Pakistan’s digital future,” Khawaja concluded, reaffirming the government’s dedication to overcoming challenges and fostering a sustainable IT environment.
