Pakistani IT Companies Start Using Starlink Illegally for Uninterrupted Internet

A number of IT companies are using Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, for uninterrupted internet despite being illegal in Pakistan. A senior representative from an IT firm shared with ProPakistani that many IT companies in Pakistan are increasingly relying on Starlink to ensure stable internet connectivity, especially for maintaining seamless communication with their international clients. “Our company sourced the equipment from the UK,” he stated, noting that the standard residential plan costs £79 per month, while the basic business plan begins at £110 per month. “However, we got the business package upgraded that cost to around £750 per month,” the executive added, “The rates are very high compared to the regular internet rates available locally, but we have the confidence of smooth business operations, as the speed of internet at Starlink was satisfactory for us,” he added. Since Starlink has no service structure in Pakistan, the IT companies were paying the monthly subscription charges abroad. Starlink is the most technologically advanced company globally, providing internet services through Low Earth Orbit (LEO), and has recently registered as a company in the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). Currently, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are getting internet from 13 high-orbit satellites, while four such satellites provide communication facilities to the TV channels in the country which have licenses from the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA). A senior government official stated that work is underway to develop a regulatory framework for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites aimed at improving connectivity and fostering technological advancements in the country. The official further explained that the government aims to address the internet demand-supply gap and expand access to unconnected regions through satellite-based internet services. Satellites orbit the Earth at a distance of around 3,600 kilometers from the surface. Whereas Starlink has released a large number of LEOs that circle the earth between 300-500 KM over the ground level. On the other hand, a senior official of PTA said that the usage of services like Starlink in Pakistan without the appropriate regulatory approval is illegal, and PTA can take actions against them like PEMRA takes actions against the illegal DTH users. According to the Ministry of IT and Telecom, a delegation of Starlink on Tuesday held a meeting with the Minister of State for IT & Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja and the two sides discussed the progress on Starlinks licensing as well as the development of regulatory frameworks for (LEO) satellites.