Pakistan Moves to Welcome Global Satellite Internet Companies

In practice, the administration has moved to facilitate the entry of global satellite businesses into Pakistan, with leading operators advised to complete registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) before proceeding with registration under the country's satellite regulatory framework.

Key points

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• The minister remarked broadband connectivity through satellite was a key component of Pakistan's digital strategy, particularly for providing high-speed internet in remote and underserved areas.
• It is at an advanced stage and is projected to be presented before the Federal Cabinet shortly.
• While other operators have been advised to initiate SECP registration before seeking PSARB registration, starlink has already registered with SECP.

Notably, the minister remarked a number of leading global satellite operators, including SpaceX's Starlink, OneWeb, Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology and Sateliot, had expressed interest in entering the Pakistani market.

While other operators have been advised to initiate SECP registration before seeking PSARB registration, starlink has already registered with SECP. PSARB is additionally coordinating with the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB) and PTA to align spectrum allocation and licensing processes.

For context, the minister remarked broadband connectivity through satellite was a key component of Pakistan's digital strategy, particularly for providing high-speed internet in remote and underserved areas. Satellite connectivity would additionally backing telecom backhaul, strengthen network resilience and contribute to digital inclusion. Satellite Internet in Pakistan Nears Final Approval Stage.

While the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is responsible for licensing telecommunication services, according to the written reply, satellite communications in Pakistan are regulated under the National Space Policy, under which the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) is mandated to develop the regulatory framework for satellite systems.

For context, the draft Satellite Communications Regulations, including provisions for NGSO/LEO systems, have been prepared by PSARB and are undergoing final consultations, while PTA has developed the Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) licensing framework. It is at an advanced stage and is projected to be presented before the Federal Cabinet shortly.

Notably, the proposed framework is designed to provide a transparent, technology-neutral and investment-friendly environment for both GSO and LEO/NGSO satellite operators while ensuring compliance with national spectrum management and security requirements.

Meanwhile, the FSS licensing framework will cover satellite broadband, telecom backhaul, bandwidth provision and corporate data services, creating a broader satellite-enabled connectivity ecosystem. Stay Connected with ProPakistani.

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Taken together, the developments around pakistan Moves to Welcome Global Satellite Internet Companies point to a situation that is still moving, and the coming days should bring more clarity.