The long-awaited satellite internet service, Starlink, is set to make its debut in Pakistan by November 2025, as confirmed by Shaza Fatima Khawaja, the Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication. During a briefing to the National Assembly Standing Committee on IT, Khawaja revealed that the licensing process for SpaceX’s Starlink service is almost complete, with the service expected to be operational in the country soon after the official licensing approval.
“We are in the final stages of the licensing process for Starlink. Once the license is granted, the infrastructure installation will commence, and the service will be fully operational by November 2025,” Khawaja stated during her briefing.
The announcement marks an exciting step forward for Pakistan’s digital landscape, as the satellite-based internet service aims to bring high-speed internet connectivity to regions of the country that have struggled with unreliable or limited access. This development is expected to significantly enhance communication, education, and business opportunities, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
In her address, Khawaja also provided an update on the progress made in internet spectrum development, as well as the ongoing efforts to address user experience issues. A sub-committee has been formed to address and expedite pending legal cases concerning the spectrum, with the goal of resolving them in a timely and effective manner.
“Resolving these legal matters is crucial, and we are working diligently to ensure swift resolution,” the minister said. She highlighted the progress made in the past year, including the clearance of over 550 MHz of spectrum through judicial channels, a milestone achieved with the assistance of the Ministry of Law. This success is expected to further bolster Pakistan’s connectivity infrastructure.
MNA Sharmila Faruqui expressed her appreciation for the ministry’s efforts, acknowledging the significant progress made in expanding the country’s digital capabilities. The committee was also briefed on various initiatives that are either underway or planned for the future, reinforcing the government’s commitment to providing Pakistanis with affordable and accessible high-speed internet.
One of the notable recent developments in this digital transformation is the approval of Starlink’s temporary registration by the federal government last month. This approval has allowed SpaceX to begin preparations for their operations in the country, including setting up the necessary infrastructure to bring satellite internet to Pakistani consumers.
Khawaja emphasized that the introduction of Starlink’s satellite internet service aligns with the broader digital vision of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who has placed a strong emphasis on technological advancement and bridging the connectivity gap, especially in rural areas.
“The move towards satellite internet represents a crucial step in our digital journey,” she said. “Under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, we are determined to drive digital transformation across Pakistan, ensuring that no region is left behind in this technological revolution.”
With the Starlink service poised to improve internet access for millions of Pakistanis, this initiative is set to be a game-changer, potentially transforming industries, education, and daily life for citizens who have long faced challenges in obtaining reliable and affordable internet connectivity.
As the final approval for licensing nears, the government remains focused on ensuring that the infrastructure is in place for Starlink to launch smoothly. The potential impact of this service will not only enhance Pakistan’s digital infrastructure but also position the country as a leader in the region in terms of technological adoption and innovation. The upcoming arrival of Starlink marks an important milestone in Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to modernize its digital ecosystem and foster a more connected society.
