Minister of Information Technology and Telecommunications, Shaza Fatima, said SpaceX’s Starlink Internet Services are expected to be operational in Pakistan by November or December this year.

The message was made during a meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee for IT and Telecom, led by MNA Aminul Haque. Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) informed the License Process for Starlink.

PTA chairman confirmed that Starlink has received a temporary license from the Space Board, adding that a full operational license would be issued when a regulatory framework is completed.

“There are no problems with the licensing process,” said Minister Shaza Fatima, clarifying that satellite internet is a new technology and different aspects that needed to be thoroughly evaluated. “A consultant has been hired to end the rules. When Starlink is done, Starlink has to apply again,” she added.

The Minister also revealed that a Chinese company had submitted a similar application for the delivery of satellite internet services in Pakistan. “Shanghai Spacecom is also in line. We will open the Space Internet sector for more players to secure competition,” she said.

The Minister confirmed that the installation of infrastructure is underway and Starlink services are expected to be launched in the last quarter of 2025.