ISLAMABAD – April 8, 2025 — In a significant development for digital connectivity, the government of Pakistan has granted temporary registration to Starlink, the satellite internet venture owned by Elon Musk.
The announcement comes amid ongoing internet disruptions and heightened restrictions on social media platforms across the country.
During a session of the National Assembly on Monday, Federal Minister for Information Technology, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, confirmed that Starlink is expected to begin its operations in Pakistan by November or December this year. She stated that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had directed relevant authorities to expedite the process.
“With the consensus of all security and regulatory bodies, Starlink has been issued a temporary no-objection certificate (NOC),” said Khawaja. She also revealed that preparations are underway for releasing more spectrum to support high-speed satellite internet services in Pakistan.
The Frequency Allocation Board, she added, has made available an additional 567 MHz of spectrum across multiple frequency bands—more than double the current spectrum capacity. An auction for this expanded spectrum is scheduled in the coming months, paving the way for smoother digital infrastructure for providers like Starlink.
The entry of Starlink into Pakistan is expected to significantly enhance broadband availability, especially in remote and underserved areas. As the nation grapples with recurring connectivity issues, Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellite network promises to deliver fast, reliable internet across even the most hard-to-reach regions.
Meanwhile, in a written reply to lawmakers, the Prime Minister’s Office outlined broader economic goals under the 13th Five-Year Plan (2024–2029). The strategy includes a focus on boosting exports, creating 10 million new jobs, and increasing tax-to-GDP ratio to 13.5%. Officials also reiterated the government’s commitment to privatisation and civil service reform.
With Starlink setting the stage for a digital leap forward, Pakistan is aligning itself with emerging global tech trends—signaling a future where digital inclusion and economic growth may go hand in hand.