Satellite internet services are set to begin in Pakistan by November or December this year, with both Starlink and Chinese company Shanghai Space in the running to provide the service, according to IT Minister Shaza Fatima.

During a briefing to the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology, the IT Minister shared that satellite internet is an emerging technology for Pakistan, and the government is actively working on its implementation.

The meeting, chaired by Syed Aminul Haque, also saw presentations from officials, including the Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).

The PTA Chairman provided an update on the temporary license issued to Starlink, which is yet to receive full approval. The full license will be granted only after the finalization of relevant regulations. "The temporary license for Starlink has been issued, and the full license will follow once the necessary regulations are finalized," the PTA Chairman said.

The IT Minister further explained that satellite internet services are expected to be operational by late 2025, following the installation of required infrastructure. She also revealed that along with Starlink, the Chinese company Shanghai Space has applied for satellite internet services in Pakistan, and its application is currently under review.

The committee also discussed the issue of pending spectrum auctions, particularly the 146 MHz spectrum cases, which are currently stuck in the courts. The PTA Chairman mentioned that the auction process might be delayed unless these cases are resolved. To address this, a sub-committee, led by Barrister Gohar, has been formed to find a solution.

Members of the committee expressed strong dissatisfaction over the state of internet services in the country, particularly the poor signals and unreliable connectivity in several areas. National Assembly member Pauline Baloch even walked out of the meeting in protest over these issues. In response, IT Minister Shaza Fatima clarified that the internet shutdowns in Balochistan were a result of security concerns, but assured that the Ministry of Interior, under the Prime Minister’s direction, is actively working to resolve the situation.

Expected Starlink Packages & Pricing in Pakistan

Although an official launch date is yet to be announced, initial reports suggest that Starlink will introduce three service packages in Pakistan, with the following expected pricing:

• Residential Package: Rs35,000/month (50-250 Mbps) with a one-time hardware installation fee of Rs110,000.
• Business Package: Rs95,000/month with a one-time setup cost of Rs220,000.
• Mobility Package: Rs50,000/month with a one-time hardware cost of Rs120,000.

While Starlink’s speeds and satellite connectivity offer significant advantages over conventional broadband, concerns remain over the high pricing of its packages, making it less accessible for the average Pakistani consumer.

Even after receiving its PTA license, Starlink will face multiple challenges before launching its services in Pakistan. Industry sources indicate that setting up ground stations, obtaining security clearances, and ensuring seamless integration within the existing telecom ecosystem will take at least a year.

Another key issue is the regulatory framework governing satellite internet services. Unlike traditional fiber or cellular networks, satellite-based internet requires additional security and spectrum allocation approvals, which could further impact rollout timelines.