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Federal Minister of State for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced that the internet service of Starlink will launch in Pakistan by year-end.
She gave the update during a briefing at a National Assembly Standing Committee meeting on Information Technology held earlier this week.
Shaza Fatima said the government will grant Starlink an operating license soon, aiming for public availability by November or December this year.
She revealed that Starlink had requested a deadline until June, but the government asked them to complete preparations by May instead.
Discussions on pricing are still underway, and some Chinese tech companies have also submitted applications for a similar license, she noted.
Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Major General (Retd) Hafeez-ur-Rehman, confirmed Starlink currently holds a temporary license for operations.
READ: Elon Musk’s Starlink moves closer to launching its services in Pakistan
He clarified that the full registration will only be issued after Starlink fulfills all technical and regulatory requirements set by the authority.
Shaza Fatima highlighted that while revenue is important, improving infrastructure and protecting the telecom industry’s stability must be top government priorities.
She said the 5G spectrum auction is being carefully handled, with the PTA Chairman personally supervising the entire process to ensure fairness.
Relief packages may be offered to telecom operators to prevent financial issues when 5G is introduced and operational across the country.
Shaza stressed that without support, companies may face bankruptcy when shifting to expensive next-generation networks, risking service interruptions and investment setbacks.
The update on Starlink comes as Pakistan explores advanced connectivity solutions to bridge the digital divide in remote and underserved regions.
If licensed fully, Starlink’s satellite internet service could significantly improve broadband access in rural areas, offering high-speed, low-latency internet nationwide.
The government’s balanced approach – supporting innovation while protecting local industry – signals a step forward in digital development and inclusive tech accessibility in Pakistan.
