Major international Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite operators, including Starlink, OneWeb, and Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology, are eager to enter Pakistan’s satellite communications market. Nevertheless, sources have indicated to TechJuice that their progress is still hindered by regulatory delays.
Reports reveal that these firms have yet to obtain the essential No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB), which oversees operations related to outer space and the upper atmosphere in accordance with the Pakistan Space Activities Rules 2024.
Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, has been actively pursuing the necessary authorization to operate within Pakistan for over four years. The company asserts that it has adhered to all regulatory and security conditions, collaborating closely with the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and other pertinent entities to satisfy the nation’s rigorous guidelines.
Despite entering into a retail agreement with Paksat and the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), Starlink is still awaiting the NOC vital for obtaining licenses from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). The persistent delays have been conveyed to various government agencies, including the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
Starlink’s proposed investment in Pakistan is significant, amounting to several million dollars dedicated to enhancing the local network infrastructure. This initiative encompasses acquiring space in data centers, establishing fiber optic links, and procuring construction supplies. In addition, the company intends to allocate funding for ongoing operational expenses, which could positively impact local enterprises, including Paksat.
Despite the prevailing regulatory challenges, the government has reaffirmed its dedication to promoting digital inclusion through the PSARB, established to oversee satellite service regulations. Industry specialists emphasize the pressing need to streamline the approval process to effectively harness LEO technologies for the nation’s digital advancement.
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