How Starlink Could Revolutionize Internet Access Across Pakistan

Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, announced that Starlink, the satellite-based internet provider owned by US billionaire Elon Musk, is officially registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). This development marks a significant step toward modernizing Pakistan’s internet infrastructure.

Khawaja explained that the Space Board Authority is currently examining technical aspects of Starlink’s operations. She stated, “A regulatory regime is being devised to ensure that all low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite companies, including Starlink, are also open to international players under a fair and comprehensive policy framework.”

How Starlink Could Revolutionize Internet Access Across Pakistan

The announcement follows Musk’s confirmation on social media platform X that he was awaiting Islamabad’s approval to launch Starlink in Pakistan. The move also signals a shift towards embracing modern satellite technology to bridge the country’s digital divide.

See Also: Elon Musk Confirms Starlink’s Pending Launch in Pakistan: A Digital Game-Changer?

Addressing Technical and Regulatory Challenges

Government officials revealed that international consultants are crafting a regulatory framework to address concerns related to non-stationary and non-jurisdictional low-earth orbit satellites. These measures also aim to mitigate potential frequency interference and ensure compliance with local policies. Notably, Pakistan will be one of the few countries in the region adopting such technology, offering it a competitive edge in connectivity.

In this regard, a meeting on Starlink and LEO satellite licensing, chaired by Minister of State Shaza Fatima Khawaja, has also been held today. In the meeting, the authorities focused on developing a robust regulatory framework for LEO satellites. Key discussions included reviewing Starlink’s licensing progress and regulatory developments, with a decision to finalize the appointment of a consultant in the coming weeks.

The meeting underscored the importance of aligning Pakistan’s satellite policies with global standards and enhancing connectivity and technology through LEO satellites. High-level representatives from Sparco, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and the Space Regulatory Board also attended the meeting. The Ministry of IT emphasized its commitment to creating a world-class regulatory framework for satellite technology and achieving the objectives of Digital Pakistan through the integration of Starlink and LEO satellite advancements.

Pakistan’s Struggles with Slow Internet Speeds

Internet connectivity in Pakistan has long been a challenge. The country ranked 100th out of 111 countries for mobile internet speeds, with a download speed of 20.61Mbps and upload speed of 8.53Mbps, according to Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index. For broadband, the situation is worse, placing 141st out of 158 countries with download speeds of 15.60Mbps and upload speeds of 15.53Mbps.

Frequent disruptions, including submarine cable faults and alleged experiments with internet firewalls, have further worsened the situation. These issues have sparked debates in parliament and caused significant financial losses to Pakistan’s IT industry, a sector critical for economic growth.

A Potential Game-Changer for Pakistan’s Internet

Starlink’s satellite-based internet services can potentially transform Pakistan’s connectivity landscape. With its constellation of LEO satellites, Starlink promises high-speed, low-latency internet access even in remote and underserved regions. This development could significantly alleviate the burden on existing undersea cables and ensure consistent internet availability.

Moreover, the arrival of Starlink complements other initiatives, such as the 2Africa Submarine Cable System, currently under development. This undersea cable, spanning 45,000 kilometres and supported by companies like Meta and Vodafone, will provide Pakistan with 24 terabytes of bandwidth, a significant upgrade from the current reliance on 8 terabytes. This project will go live by Q4 2025. Moreover, it will enhance internet reliability and performance for platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram.

Impact on Slow Internet Conditions

The introduction of Starlink, alongside the 2Africa cable project, can address Pakistan’s long-standing issues with slow internet. Starlink’s ability to bypass traditional infrastructure challenges like damaged undersea cables and limited broadband coverage offers a much-needed alternative. Faster and more reliable internet could boost Pakistan’s IT industry, facilitate digital education, and attract foreign investments. Improved connectivity also has the potential to drive innovation in sectors like e-commerce, healthcare, and financial services, fostering overall economic development.

Hopefully, Starlink’s registration in Pakistan and the ongoing 2Africa project will provide hope for transforming the country’s digital future, ensuring faster, reliable, and inclusive internet access.