ISLAMABAD: State Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja has said that Elon Musk’s Starlink Internet Services Pakistan and Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology, a Chinese satellite company, have applied for licenses to operate in Pakistan.
In her written statement, Shaza Fatima told the National Assembly that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is currently processing applications only from companies registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).
According to the PTA’s licensing framework, only locally registered companies are eligible to apply.
Shaza Fatima said that although international companies cannot submit applications directly, they can do so through their SECP-registered subsidiaries.
He said that Starlink, a satellite-based internet service provider owned by SpaceX, and Chinese satellite communications firm Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology, are both looking to expand operations in Pakistan under this regulatory framework.
The minister of state stressed that the licensing process is straightforward once an application is submitted. The PTA reviews applications after fulfilling all formalities and obtaining security clearance from the Ministry of Interior if required.
The introduction of the Online Application Submission Information System (OASIS) has simplified the procedure, enabling applicants to submit and track their documents online.
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He said that the PTA is committed to maintaining high standards of internet connectivity across the country. It actively monitors the quality of service (QoS) provided by internet companies under the Fixed Broadband Quality of Service (QoS) Regulations, 2022, ensuring compliance with global standards for reliability and performance.
Shaza Fatima says the development reflects Pakistan’s growing focus on attracting global technology leaders to expand its digital infrastructure and strengthen connectivity across the country.
Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology, which specializes in satellite communication solutions, and Starlink Satellite Technology, which offers satellite-based internet services, are both seeking to grow their businesses in Pakistan.
