Web Desk: Pakistan is moving to clear the way for major global satellite companies to enter its market, as authorities work to streamline regulations for satellite-based internet and expand broadband access to underserved areas.
The government has advised international satellite operators interested in Pakistan to first complete registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) before seeking approval under the country’s satellite regulatory framework.
Several major operators, including SpaceX’s Starlink, OneWeb, Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology and Sateliot, have expressed interest in launching services in Pakistan, according to a government statement.
Starlink has already completed its SECP registration, while other companies have been advised to begin the process before applying for registration with the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB).
At the same time, PSARB is coordinating with the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB) and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to bring spectrum allocation and licensing procedures into alignment.
The government said satellite broadband forms an important part of Pakistan’s digital connectivity strategy, particularly in regions where conventional telecom infrastructure remains limited.
Satellite-based services could provide high-speed internet to remote communities while also supporting telecom backhaul, improving network resilience and expanding digital access.
Under Pakistan’s National Space Policy, PSARB is responsible for developing regulations governing satellite systems, while PTA oversees the licensing of telecommunications services.
PSARB has prepared draft Satellite Communications Regulations covering non-geostationary satellite systems, including low Earth orbit (LEO) networks. The draft is currently undergoing final consultations.
Meanwhile, PTA has developed a licensing framework for Fixed Satellite Services (FSS), which has reached an advanced stage and is expected to be submitted to the Federal Cabinet soon.
The regulatory push comes as satellite companies increasingly target markets where traditional broadband infrastructure struggles to reach large or remote populations.
For Pakistan, bringing international satellite operators into the market could widen internet access beyond major urban centres and provide an alternative connectivity option during disruptions to terrestrial networks.
However, operators will need to navigate Pakistan’s registration, spectrum and licensing requirements before launching commercial services.
With Starlink already registered with the SECP and several other global companies showing interest, Pakistan’s satellite internet market appears to be moving closer to a new phase one in which low-Earth-orbit networks could play a growing role in connecting the country’s hardest-to-reach communities.
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