Licensing delays threaten Pakistan’s satellite internet ambitions, Senate told

The issue of delays in the issuance of satellite internet licences has reached Parliament, as the federal minister for information technology and relevant authorities have been asked to explain the continued hold-up in granting approvals to international companies.

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, Senator Sarmad Ali submitted an attention notice in the Senate, highlighting concerns over the prolonged delay in issuing licences to satellite internet providers. The notice stated that the delay is negatively affecting companies interested in entering the Pakistani market.

It further noted that the registration of five satellite internet companies remains pending with the Pakistan Space Regulatory Board, raising concerns about the impact on foreign investment and the rollout of advanced internet services in the country.

The notice argued that the pending registrations are causing unnecessary delays in launching satellite internet services, despite the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) having already fulfilled all regulatory requirements related to the initiation of such services.

Sources said that several international satellite internet companies are ready to commence operations in Pakistan and have already assured compliance with national security and legal requirements prior to launching their services. 

They added that concerns regarding the security implications of satellite internet are misleading and not grounded in reality.

According to sources, satellite internet operators have expressed their willingness to fully comply with the legal framework, underscoring their commitment to operating within Pakistan’s regulatory environment.

Experts have emphasised that satellite internet is an essential requirement for remote and underserved regions of the country, where traditional broadband infrastructure remains limited or unavailable. 

Reporter: Waqas Azeem