ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s satellite broadband sector is drawing global attention. After Starlink, Amazon’s Project Kuiper has also expressed interest in launching services in the country.
Officials confirmed that Kuiper representatives shared plans to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan. Authorities welcomed the move and briefed the team on local registration procedures and legal requirements.
Amazon Kuiper has already launched over 100 satellites and signed its first contract in Australia. However, it has not yet rolled out commercial services anywhere. If launched in Pakistan, Kuiper could deliver fast, reliable internet to underserved regions.
Starlink, owned by Elon Musk, was the first to register in Pakistan. Several Chinese firms, including Shanghai Telecom and Telco Integrated, along with OneWeb, have also approached authorities. Experts believe growing competition will reshape Pakistan’s digital landscape.
The government is finalising a regulatory framework to facilitate satellite internet operators. The Pakistan Space Activity Regulatory Board (PSARB) has submitted a detailed report outlining licensing rules and conditions. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is reviewing the draft before issuing final regulations.
Meanwhile, Starlink faces delays. Its temporary registration with PSARB expired in July, stalling the licensing process. The company registered on March 21 but failed to secure permanent approval, a key requirement for PTA licensing.
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Analysts say the entry of multiple providers could mark the start of a new era of high-speed connectivity in Pakistan.
