IT Minister Rules Out Any Delay in Starlink Launch in Pakistan

Federal IT Minister Shaza Fatima clarified on Friday that there is no delay in the licensing of Starlink in Pakistan and dismissed all speculation about it. Speaking informally with media persons, she said a consultant has been appointed by the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board to formulate rules for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. There is a completion deadline set for June for completing the rule book, the minister added. Shaza said Starlink is expected to take five to six months to establish its infrastructure in Pakistan and launch in December 2025. She noted that Starlink has been cooperating with Pakistani institutions so far. She also confirmed that Chinese satellite internet firms, including Galaxy Space and Shanghai Space, have shown interest in entering the Pakistani market. These companies want to invest in both satellite internet and broader space technology. However, they have yet to submit formal applications. She emphasized that Pakistan’s space policy is open and non-exclusive. The government will facilitate whichever company comes forward, she commented. The minister acknowledged that Pakistan’s telecom sector is facing challenges as the average revenue per user (ARPU) at just Rs. 270 per month, the lowest in the region. Rising costs due to fluctuations in the dollar and electricity prices have worsened the situation in recent years. She added that the upcoming spectrum auction is expected to improve services, and telecom companies have submitted budget proposals for the next fiscal year, which will be shared with the Ministry of Finance soon. Commenting on the shutdown of social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the ministry rejected the public opinion that it was about freedom of expression. She said X had not contacted the IT Ministry post-ban and may have only interacted with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority. X does not comply with Pakistani laws, she stated, while adding that other platforms remain in contact with the government and respond to official requests.