Elon Musk’s Starlink Has Applied for License to Operate in Pakistan: IT Minister

State Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, informed the National Assembly that two international entities, Elon Musk’s Starlink Internet Services Pakistan (Pvt.) Ltd. and Chinese satellite company Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology, have applied for licenses to operate in Pakistan. In a written statement, she clarified that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is currently only processing applications from companies registered with the Securities & Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). According to the minister, PTA’s licensing regime mandates that only locally registered companies are eligible to submit applications. While applications from international entities are not being directly entertained, those registered under SECP can apply for licenses. Both Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX providing satellite-based internet services, and Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology, a Chinese company specializing in satellite communication solutions, are seeking to expand their operations in Pakistan under this framework. The minister highlighted that the licensing process is straightforward and free of challenges once an application is submitted. The PTA processes applications after the completion of codal formalities and security clearance from the Ministry of Interior, if required. Furthermore, the introduction of the Online Application Submission Information System (OASIS) has streamlined the process, allowing applicants to submit documents and track the status of their applications remotely. PTA is actively monitoring the Quality of Service (QoS) of internet providers to ensure compliance with global standards. Under the Fixed Broadband Quality of Service (QoS) Regulations, 2022, internet services are regularly evaluated to meet performance benchmarks. This approach is aimed at maintaining reliable and high-quality connectivity across the country.