Elon Musk’s Starlink and the Chinese satellite company Shanghai Spacecom have both applied for licenses to operate in Pakistan. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, the State Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, confirmed this on December 24, 2024.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is reviewing these applications. Foreign companies like Starlink and Shanghai Spacecom must work through local companies to apply, as direct applications from foreign firms are not allowed.
Starlink provides satellite internet, while Shanghai Spacecom focuses on satellite communications. These companies hope to improve internet access, especially in rural and remote areas of Pakistan.
The PTA is reviewing the applications, checking required documents, and making sure the companies follow Pakistan’s laws. The PTA also ensures that internet providers meet quality standards and that all radio frequency allocations and service licenses are correctly issued.
