Satellite internet licensing framework nears cabinet approval

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has moved closer to launching satellite-based internet services, with national security, spectrum management and security requirements made central to the regulatory structure being prepared for the sector.

Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja, in a progress report submitted to parliament, said work on the regulatory framework for satellite internet is in its final phase. She said the federal cabinet is expected to approve the licensing framework for fixed satellite services (FSS).

The process of putting in place a broad regulatory regime for satellite communication is under way. This includes draft Satellite Communication Regulations prepared by the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB), covering non-geostationary satellite orbit (NGSO) and other operational matters. The consultation process on these regulations has already been completed.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has also completed the licensing framework document for satellite services, which is now in its final stage and is likely to be placed before the federal cabinet soon.

Khawaja said that, under her directions, the PTA is preparing to roll out a digital communications network that will form a major part of Pakistan’s digital government strategy. She said the initiative is intended to deliver reliable, fast and affordable internet access in remote and hard-to-reach areas.

She added that low-earth-orbit satellite systems, including Starlink, OneWeb and similar platforms, have shown interest in starting internet services in Pakistan and could support efforts to improve connectivity and advance digital inclusion.

Regulatory roles and market interest

Satellite communication services in Pakistan fall under the policy oversight of the Ministry of IT and Telecom. Under the existing arrangement, PSARB has been authorised by the government to frame regulations for oversight of satellite systems, while the PTA is responsible for issuing telecom service licences.

The wider regulatory framework is being developed in line with international best practices. PSARB, the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB) and the PTA are working to create what the minister described as a transparent, technology-neutral and investor-friendly environment for satellite operators.

The framework is intended to reduce regulatory complications and establish a coordinated ecosystem for satellite communications under the government’s strategic direction.

Khawaja said the licensing framework will include broadband, backhaul, low-earth-orbit connectivity and corporate data services, with the aim of enabling a complete satellite-based connectivity system in the country.

Major international operators, including SpaceX’s Starlink, OneWeb, Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology and other companies, have expressed interest in entering the Pakistani market. Starlink has already been registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), while other operators have been directed by PSARB to begin SECP registration before moving ahead.

PSARB, the FAB and the PTA are currently working together to complete the registration and licensing process in a smooth and transparent manner.

Matter also under Senate discussion

The issue is also pending discussion in the Senate. Earlier, a call-attention notice was submitted in the upper house over what was described as a prolonged delay in the issuance of licences for satellite-based internet services.

Senator Sarmad Ali had drawn the IT minister’s attention to the delay, saying it was affecting companies seeking to enter the Pakistani market. He said around five companies were awaiting final regulatory clearance and that the PTA had almost completed the requirements for the internet service, but registration with PSARB had remained pending for several months.

The report also noted concerns raised by industry experts, who warned that Pakistan’s push for next-generation connectivity could be weakened by policy indecision, weak long-term planning and inconsistent regulation. They said that while Pakistan presents itself as a rapidly emerging digital economy, delays in licensing and modern connectivity decisions are widening the gap between official ambition and implementation.