Regulatory Delays Stall Satellite Internet Launch
Islamabad – September 2025: Pakistan’s satellite internet rollout has been delayed, despite growing interest from global technology leaders such as Starlink, Amazon’s Project Kuiper, OneWeb (Eutelsat Group), Telesat, and SpaceCell (SSST). These companies are prepared to invest millions of dollars to provide high-speed broadband access, particularly in rural and underserved regions. However, the process remains stalled due to regulatory challenges.
The Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) has not yet finalized its licensing framework. Although stakeholder consultations are ongoing, no formal approvals have been granted. The Ministry of IT and Telecom has limited authority in resolving this institutional deadlock, further slowing progress.
Impact on Digital Pakistan Vision
Earlier this year, Federal IT Minister Shaza Fatima assured that satellite internet services would be operational by November–December 2025. Industry experts now caution that unless regulations are finalized soon, the launch could be delayed well beyond 2025.
Such delays threaten the government’s “Digital Pakistan” vision, which aims to:
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Expand digital connectivity nationwide
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Attract significant foreign investment
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Bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas
Why Satellite Internet is Crucial for Pakistan
The global race for satellite broadband adoption is accelerating, and Pakistan risks lagging behind if regulatory barriers persist. The consequences of this delay include:
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Global Competition: Falling behind other nations already embracing satellite internet technologies.
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Foreign Investment: Potential billions in investment could be postponed or redirected.
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Rural Access: Millions in remote communities may continue to lack reliable internet services.
The Road Ahead for Pakistan’s Connectivity Goals
Pakistan’s National Space Policy (2023) and Space Activities Rules (2024) led to the establishment of the PSARB, raising hopes that international satellite operators would soon enter the market. These frameworks were designed to open opportunities for private sector and foreign companies to drive innovation in digital connectivity.
However, unless the regulatory process is streamlined, Pakistan risks missing out on a major technological shift in internet access. With companies like Starlink, Amazon Kuiper, and OneWeb ready to invest, the timely resolution of licensing and approval issues is critical to unlocking Pakistan’s digital potential.
