Pakistan has rolled out a new licensing regime for satellite internet providers, tightening regulatory oversight while making it easier for global firms to enter the market. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will now require companies to establish local earth gateway stations and store user data within the country’s borders before receiving operating licences.
A New Directorate to Handle Licensing
To manage the influx of satellite internet applications, the PTA has created a dedicated Satellite Directorate. This unit will coordinate with the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB), which will serve as the first stop for foreign and local firms seeking approval. Companies must secure PSARB registration before applying for a national licence, which regulators say could be issued within weeks once all technical and compliance requirements are met.
One Nationwide Licence Instead of Multiple Permits
Previously, satellite operators needed a patchwork of local and long-distance permits to operate across Pakistan. The new framework consolidates these into a single national licence, streamlining market entry and cutting bureaucratic delays. Officials say this approach aligns with Pakistan’s broader telecom policy, which seeks to simplify regulations while maintaining strict oversight of foreign operators.
Data Sovereignty Becomes a Priority
Perhaps the most significant shift is the government’s insistence that Pakistani user data be stored locally. The rule effectively prevents foreign satellite companies from hosting operational data offshore, a move aimed at bolstering national security and data privacy. This mirrors a growing global trend where governments demand greater control over domestic internet infrastructure.
Interest from Global Players
International satellite providers are already eyeing Pakistan’s market under the updated rules. Companies like SpaceX’s Starlink and Amazon’s Kuiper have expressed interest, while Chinese firms are reportedly preparing to invest as well. The licensing process will include conditions on gateway placement, service rollout timelines, and security protocols, signaling that while entry is easier, oversight will remain tight.
Pakistan’s new satellite internet policy represents a balancing act: welcoming global tech giants while reinforcing its digital borders. With faster approvals promised, the country could soon see competition heating up in a market that has long struggled with connectivity gaps, especially in rural areas.
