Why couldn't Starlink service start in Pakistan?
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Starlink service has not yet fully started in Pakistan due to a combination of regulatory hurdles, technical requirements, and strategic considerations. Here's a breakdown of the key reasons: * Temporary vs. Permanent Registration/Licensing: While Starlink received temporary registration from the PaRead more
Starlink service has not yet fully started in Pakistan due to a combination of regulatory hurdles, technical requirements, and strategic considerations. Here’s a breakdown of the key reasons:
See less* Temporary vs. Permanent Registration/Licensing: While Starlink received temporary registration from the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) in March 2025, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has decided not to issue a full operational license until Starlink completes all regulatory and technical requirements for permanent registration with PSARB. This distinction is a major point of delay.
* Complex Regulatory Framework: Pakistan has introduced new regulations, including the National Satellite Policy (2023) and the Pakistan Space Activities Rules (2024), to govern satellite telecommunications. Starlink needs to comply with these comprehensive frameworks, which adds layers of complexity to the licensing process.
* Security Clearances and Concerns: National security is a primary concern for Pakistan. Authorities are carefully reviewing Starlink’s operations to ensure it doesn’t compromise national security by creating loopholes for cyberattacks, espionage, or interference with critical infrastructure. There are also concerns about how satellite services could be used to bypass regulations on sensitive topics or in security-sensitive areas. Starlink needs to secure all necessary security clearances.
* Technical Requirements and Interference: The PTA and other stakeholders like the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB) and SUPARCO have raised concerns about potential interference between Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites and existing communication infrastructure, particularly Geostationary Satellite Orbit (GSO) systems. Starlink needs to ensure its operations do not disrupt existing networks and that its uplinks and downlinks are compatible.
* Establishment of Ground Stations: For Starlink to operate effectively in Pakistan, it needs to set up ground stations within the country. This involves significant infrastructure installations and logistical challenges.
* Integration with Existing Telecom Ecosystem: Ensuring seamless integration with Pakistan’s current telecom networks is another crucial aspect.
* Pricing Concerns: While not a direct cause of the delay in regulatory approval, the high pricing of Starlink’s hardware and monthly subscription fees could be a challenge for widespread adoption among average Pakistani consumers, even once services are launched.
* Potential Resistance from Local ISPs: Existing internet service providers in Pakistan may view Starlink’s entry as a threat to their market share, potentially leading to lobbying efforts or other forms of resistance that could indirectly impact the regulatory process.
Despite these challenges, Starlink has been preparing its infrastructure, and Pakistani officials have indicated ongoing discussions to finalize the regulatory framework. While an official launch date is still pending, some reports have suggested a potential launch by November 2025 if all legal and regulatory conditions are met.