Elon Musk’s Starlink has been dealt a major setback on its quest to bring satellite internet to Pakistan, as the temporary registration of the company with the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) has technically lapsed, sources disclosed this week.
The setback is a disappointment to Starlink’s quest to introduce its satellite internet service in Pakistan, a nation that will greatly benefit from enhanced digital connectivity, particularly in neglected and rural communities.
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According to officials familiar with the matter, PSARB temporarily registered Starlink on March 21, 2024. The registration was a stepping stone to receiving a permanent operating license from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). The company has not, however, satisfied the requirements necessary for permanent registration, which is mandatory prior to any license being awarded.
“Temporary registration lapsed in June, and Starlink has so far failed to meet the requirements for permanent clearance,” a government official asserted.
Reacting to the setback, Starlink officials confirmed the lapse of the temporary registration and said that the issue is still being reviewed internally. Sources in the company revealed that Starlink is holding out for a “clear policy framework” from the Pakistani government before making any other move.
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Despite this delay, optimism still surrounds the project. Back in March, Starlink received a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the PTA—a major milestone that was approved under the direction of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The move was seen as part of a broader government push to expand digital infrastructure and boost internet access nationwide.
Starlink initially got itself registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and filed its application for a telecom license on February 24, 2022. The application was subsequently forwarded to the Ministry of Information Technology for consultation. Progress has nonetheless been slow, and regulatory processes have continued to hold up the process.
