Elon Musk’s Starlink is set to launch its service in Pakistan by June 2025.
The licensing process for Starlink had stalled due to the absence of a regulatory authority but is now nearing completion. 90% of the registration process has been completed, and the licensing process is now at its final stage. To operate legally in Pakistan, Starlink would register with the Pakistan Space Regulatory Board (PSRB) and obtain a license from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). Chinese firm Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology (SSST) has also applied for a license to provide satellite-based internet services in Pakistan.
The National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology discussed key issues including the Information Technology (IT) Ministry’s PSDF for FY 2024-25.
Telecom companies are hesitant to establish towers in rural areas without business potential. The committee members expressed frustration over the country’s inadequate internet services, with some areas lacking access even 40 kilometres outside Lahore. The committee recommended that the government to expedite negotiations with Starlink to ensure timely service rollout. The launch of Starlink will help fulfill the government’s digitization dreams and make it easier to achieve IT export targets.
Estimated Starlink Packages for Pakistan
- Residential Package: 50-250 Mbps, PKR 35,000/month, PKR 110,000 one-time hardware fee.
- Business Package: 100-500 Mbps, PKR 95,000/month, PKR 220,000 hardware setup.
- Mobility Package: 50-250 Mbps, PKR 50,000/month, PKR 120,000 hardware costs.
Global Comparisons
- United States: $110/month, $599 one-time hardware cost.
- United Kingdom: £89/month, £499 hardware fee.
- Australia: AUD 139/month, AUD 709 upfront hardware cost.
Subscription Process
- Visit the Starlink website and check availability.
- Secure a spot in the queue by paying a refundable deposit (usually USD 99).
- Receive the Starlink Kit and install the dish.
- Follow setup instructions via the Starlink app.
