The State Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, recently shared important news with the National Assembly. She mentioned that two international companies, Elon Musk Starlink Internet Services and Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology from China, have applied for licenses to operate in Pakistan.
Details About the Applications
- Starlink, a part of SpaceX, offers satellite-based internet services.
- Shanghai Spacecom, a Chinese satellite company, specializes in satellite communication technologies.
These two companies are hoping to expand their services in Pakistan, but they must first follow the country’s licensing rules.
Requirements for Licensing
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is processing only those applications that come from companies registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). The PTA’s licensing system only accepts applications from locally registered companies. International companies, like Starlink and Shanghai Spacecom, cannot apply directly. Instead, they need to work through companies that are registered in Pakistan under the SECP.
Application Process
According to the minister, the application process is simple and doesn’t have many difficulties. Once a company submits its application, the PTA reviews it. In some cases, security clearance from the Ministry of Interior may be required.
The PTA has a system called Online Application Submission Information System (OASIS). This system makes it easier for companies to submit their documents and track the progress of their applications.
Quality of Service Monitoring
The PTA is also focused on ensuring high-quality internet services in Pakistan. They monitor the Quality of Service (QoS) regularly. According to the Fixed Broadband Quality of Service Regulations, 2022, the PTA checks if internet services are meeting the global performance standards. This ensures that people in Pakistan enjoy reliable and fast internet connections.
| Entity | Application | Requirements | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starlink | Applied for a license to operate in Pakistan | Must be registered with SECP | PTA processing the application |
| Shanghai Spacecom | Applied for a license to operate in Pakistan | Must be registered with SECP | PTA processing the application |
| PTA | Processes applications, ensures internet service quality | Only processes applications from SECP-registered companies | Actively monitoring QoS |
| OASIS System | Online platform for submitting and tracking applications | Simplifies application submission | Available for use by applicants |
Summary
Both Starlink and Shanghai Spacecom are taking steps to bring their satellite internet services to Pakistan. However, they must follow the country’s licensing procedures through locally registered companies. The PTA’s licensing process is efficient and ensures that all internet services meet high standards for quality.
