Pakistan Puts Starlink Approval on Hold Over Security, Geopolitical Concerns, The Government of Pakistan has paused the approval process for Elon Musk-owned Starlink to operate its satellite-based internet services in the country, citing data security risks, regulatory concerns and geopolitical sensitivities as key reasons for the delay, local officials and media reports say.
Read More: PTA’s New Policy Paves Way for Starlink and Other Satellite Internet Providers in Pakistan
Starlink — a satellite internet venture of SpaceX — had been among a group of global companies seeking licences to enter Pakistan’s emerging satellite broadband market. However, authorities say that unresolved issues related to monitoring authority, regulatory oversight and data safety must be addressed before a final licence can be granted.
Why the Hold Was Placed
According to government sources, officials are hesitant to approve Starlink without ensuring that its network can be fully monitored and regulated within Pakistan’s security framework. There are concerns that certain types of data transmission over Starlink’s network could bypass existing monitoring systems, creating potential gaps in national cybersecurity.
Officials also noted that recent geopolitical tensions involving Elon Musk and United States leadership may be an added factor in Islamabad’s cautious approach. The government reportedly wants to avoid any diplomatic friction that might arise from moving forward without fully resolving security and strategic concerns.
Starlink and the Satellite Internet Market in Pakistan
Starlink remains one of several firms — including Chinese and global satellite internet companies — pursuing market entry in Pakistan. All prospective providers are required to secure clearances from the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) and obtain a formal operating licence from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) under the National Space Activities Rules, 2024.
Previous progress had included Starlink receiving a temporary registration or no-objection status from PSARB, but that was only an early regulatory step. The full operating licence was always contingent on completion of the security and regulatory framework — which now remains under review.
What This Means for Pakistani Users
Satellite-based internet services such as Starlink are expected to bring high-speed broadband to remote and underserved areas of Pakistan, where traditional internet infrastructure is limited. However, until regulatory, security and policy issues are fully resolved, Starlink and similar providers cannot legally launch services nationwide.
Industry analysts believe the slowdown underscores the broader challenge of balancing technology adoption with national security and regulatory oversight in Pakistan’s rapidly evolving digital ecosystem.
