The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has finalized the draft licensing framework for Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) after consultations with industry stakeholders, officials told ProPakistani.
The framework has now been forwarded to the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication for further processing. Sources said the ministry will submit it to the Federal Cabinet for approval, a necessary step before satellite internet providers can formally apply for operational licenses.
Industry analysts believe that once cabinet approval is secured and inter-agency regulatory issues are resolved, satellite internet deployment could accelerate significantly, particularly in remote and underserved areas of Pakistan.
The proposed framework aims to streamline regulatory procedures and open the market to both local and global satellite operators, enabling the launch of broadband services nationwide.
Officials noted that satellite internet rollout in Pakistan has been delayed due to a “complex web of regulatory approvals” and unresolved security and data compliance concerns. Multiple government agencies are involved in the process, slowing operational entry for providers.
Under the finalized FSS framework, licenses will be non-exclusive, valid for 15 years, and allow operators to establish gateway earth stations. The framework permits provision of broadband, backhaul, and enterprise connectivity services. Companies will also need registration with the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board before applying for PTA licenses.
