Key Takeaways
- Starlink's Pakistan director, Sikander Naqi, has provided clarity on the four key requirements for launching services in the country.
- The remaining requirements, including FSS licensing and space regulations, are operator-specific and await formal approval.
- The delay in these requirements has implications for connectivity in underserved areas, particularly schools and hospitals.
Starlink’s Pakistan director, Sikander Naqi, has clarified the status of the four key requirements necessary for launching services in Pakistan.
These requirements include registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), finalization of space regulations, issuance of the Fixed Satellite Service (FSS) licence, and completion of the required security clearances.
Naqi stated that, except for SECP registration, the remaining requirements are operator-specific and can only be formally fulfilled once the government has officially issued the relevant FSS licensing framework and space regulations.
According to Naqi, consultations on the FSS licensing framework have already been held with the industry, and the framework is now reportedly finalised.
The space regulations have also reportedly been finalised and are currently awaiting approval through the government’s internal process.
Naqi noted that the required security clearances are incorporated into this regulatory framework, which involves stringent vetting, including clearance procedures related to foreign directors.
The PTA had recently informed a Senate committee that LEO satellite operators must fulfil regulatory and security requirements before receiving permission to operate in Pakistan.
Naqi acknowledged that the security-clearance process is very stringent and may require further clarification, particularly if it adds a procedural requirement that could further delay the process.
The continued delay in the introduction of LEO satellite services in Pakistan has implications for connectivity in underserved areas, including schools and hospitals.
There has also been increasing discussion around broadband connectivity challenges in sectors such as railways and aviation, as well as the quality, resilience, and availability of connectivity services.
A senior regulator has officially acknowledged that some of these connectivity challenges could potentially be addressed through LEO satellite operations.
Except SECP registration, the remaining requirements are operator-specific and can only be formally fulfilled once the government has officially issued the relevant FSS licensing framework and space regulations.
Sikander Naqi, Starlink’s Pakistan director
