Starlink’s entry into Pakistan’s satellite internet market has hit yet another roadblock, as the company’s temporary registration with the Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO/PSARB) has expired without conversion to permanent status, official sources confirm.
Read More: Starlink Launch in Pakistan Hits Roadblocks Over Security, Regulatory Concerns and Affordability
The expiry has effectively stalled the licensing process with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), which requires permanent PSARB registration as a prerequisite for granting operational permission.
According to officials, Starlink was granted temporary registration on March 21, but has so far failed to meet the criteria for permanent approval, leading to delays in its commercial rollout.
“THE TEMPORARY REGISTRATION EXPIRED IN JUNE, AND STARLINK HAS NOT YET FULFILLED THE CONDITIONS FOR PERMANENT AUTHORIZATION,” A GOVERNMENT SOURCE TOLD REPORTERS.
Regulatory Limbo Continues: Starlink representatives have acknowledged the regulatory lapse, confirming the expiration of their registration and stating that the issue is under internal review. Company insiders also note that Starlink is awaiting a clear, formal policy framework from the Pakistani government regarding the commercial use of satellite internet services.
Previously, in March, the PTA had issued a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) to Starlink, a step that had signaled imminent progress. The NOC, approved by the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board, came on the direction of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, reflecting the government’s stated intent to expand digital connectivity across underserved regions.
Starlink, a subsidiary of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, had formally registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and submitted a telecom license application on February 24, 2022. The matter was referred to the Ministry of IT and Telecom in March 2022 for further consultation.
What’s at Stake: If operational, Starlink could dramatically improve broadband access in remote and rural areas, providing high-speed internet via satellite technology. However, the absence of a stable regulatory framework and long bureaucratic delays are posing significant obstacles.
Despite early signs of progress, the latest setback signals ongoing uncertainty about Pakistan’s readiness to adopt next-generation connectivity solutions, as global players await clarity and consistent policy enforcement.
