Pakistan Close to Finalising Satellite Internet Framework

Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja said on October 13 that Pakistan is close to completing the regulatory framework needed to introduce satellite internet services. She was speaking at the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) Symposium on Digital Transformation and the Universal Service Fund (USF). The framework for Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) will be finalised after consultations with relevant institutions, and the government aims to provide a business-friendly environment to attract companies interested in offering satellite-based connectivity.

What It Means for Providers Like Starlink

The framework could create opportunities for international providers, including Starlink. However, its progress does not mean Starlink has received permission to begin commercial operations in Pakistan. The regulatory process must be completed before any services can be introduced under the applicable rules.

Digital Infrastructure Progress

According to figures shared by the minister:

• The gender gap in mobile internet usage has fallen from 38% to 8%.

• Three new submarine internet cables have landed in Pakistan over the past two and a half years.

• The USF has laid more than 17,000 kilometres of optical fibre across the country.

These efforts aim to improve connectivity, particularly in areas where internet access remains limited.