A growing number of IT companies in Pakistan have turned to Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, to ensure uninterrupted connectivity for their operations. While the service has proven to be highly efficient, its use remains unofficial in Pakistan, raising concerns about regulatory compliance.
According to a senior representative from an IT company, Starlink’s reliability makes it an attractive option for businesses that depend on seamless communication with international clients. “Our company sourced the equipment from the UK,” the representative explained, noting that Starlink’s residential plan costs £79 per month, with the business plan starting at £110 per month. Many companies, however, have opted for higher-tier business packages, sometimes reaching up to £750 per month. Despite the higher costs compared to local providers, companies find the investment worthwhile due to the service’s smooth operations and satisfactory internet speed.
Since Starlink has not yet been officially launched in Pakistan, businesses using the service are paying subscription fees abroad. Although Starlink has recently registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), the absence of a regulatory framework has placed its operations in a legal gray area. Starlink operates through a network of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, which provide faster internet speeds and lower latency compared to traditional High Earth Orbit (HEO) satellites. Pakistan’s current internet services rely on 13 high-orbit satellites, with four additional satellites providing communication facilities to TV channels under licenses issued by Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA).
A senior government official mentioned that efforts are underway to establish a regulatory framework for LEO satellite-based internet services. “The government is focused on addressing the internet demand-supply gap and expanding access to unconnected regions through satellite internet,” the official said. This initiative aims to enhance technological advancements and improve connectivity across the country.
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has raised concerns that using Starlink without proper regulatory approval is not in compliance with local laws. A PTA official emphasized that actions could be taken against companies using such services, similar to PEMRA’s actions against users of illegal Direct-to-Home (DTH) services.
In response to these concerns, the Ministry of IT and Telecom is collaborating with Starlink to establish legal and operational frameworks. A delegation from Starlink recently met with Minister of State for IT & Telecom, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, to discuss licensing progress and regulatory frameworks for LEO satellite services.
Starlink’s potential to revolutionize internet connectivity in Pakistan is particularly significant for remote areas where traditional infrastructure has been limited. However, the ongoing use of the service without official approval highlights the urgent need for clear regulatory guidelines. As discussions continue, the government’s ability to balance innovation with legal oversight will be crucial in shaping the future of Pakistan’s digital landscape.
For now, Starlink presents a promising solution for reliable internet access, but the lack of proper licensing and regulatory approval remains a challenge for both authorities and the IT sector.
