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Pakistan registers six satellite internet companies, including Starlink, as operators await regulatory approvals and security clearance before launching services.
Pakistan is moving towards expanding its satellite-based internet infrastructure as six international companies have registered to explore opportunities in the country’s emerging satellite internet market. However, the commencement of commercial services remains dependent on regulatory approvals and security clearances.
According to details shared by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) with a Senate Standing Committee, the registered companies include Starlink, Space Cell Pakistan, Aether One, Flanovatics, Galaxy Space, and SpaceP.
The registrations reflect growing international interest in Pakistan’s satellite internet market and the potential to introduce additional connectivity services through satellite-based technology. However, company registration alone does not grant permission to begin commercial operations.
Among the six registered companies, only SpaceP has submitted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB). The remaining companies have yet to provide the required clearance from the regulatory authority.
Meanwhile, security clearance for foreign directors and shareholders of Starlink, Galaxy Space, and Space Cell Pakistan remains pending with the Ministry of Interior, adding another regulatory requirement before their services can be launched.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) clarified that companies seeking to launch satellite internet services in Pakistan must fulfil several regulatory requirements before beginning commercial operations. These include obtaining security clearance, securing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB), and acquiring an operating licence from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
The approval process involves multiple government institutions responsible for ensuring that foreign satellite internet operators comply with Pakistan’s security, telecommunications and regulatory frameworks. This reflects the government’s efforts to maintain oversight of emerging digital infrastructure while facilitating the entry of international service providers.
The registration of six international satellite internet companies signals growing interest in Pakistan’s satellite connectivity market and potential investment in the country’s digital infrastructure. However, registration does not automatically authorise commercial operations, as companies must complete all outstanding regulatory procedures before launching their services.
The development highlights Pakistan’s efforts to expand digital connectivity by attracting foreign satellite internet operators while balancing investment opportunities with national security and regulatory considerations. Nevertheless, the commercial launch of these services, including Starlink, remains uncertain as the required approvals and security clearances are yet to be completed.
