The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is preparing to grant licences for Fixed Satellite Services (FSS). This move could usher global operators like Starlink into Pakistan’s telecom landscape. The licence will allow operators to establish earth stations, VSATs, and gateway facilities, offering broadband bandwidth to telecom licensees, corporate intranet solutions, and critical backhaul services supporting underserved regions and the broader digital transformation of the country.
Licence Scope and Permissions
The licence authorizes operators, on a non-exclusive basis, to build and maintain fixed earth stations, gateway hubs, and terrestrial links with the Public Switched Network. Using these systems, operators may provide satellite broadband, intranet services, bandwidth support to other licensees, and telecom backhaul. Importantly, all international bandwidth must be sourced via an LDI licensee, ensuring regulatory oversight of global data exchanges.
Financial Commitments Required
PTA requires significant financial contributions from prospective licensees. An Initial Licence Fee (ILF) of US$500,000 is mandatory before operations begin. Additionally, operators must pay 0.5% of annual gross revenues as the Annual Licence Fee (ALF), contribute 1.5% to the Universal Service Fund (USF), and 0.5% as Annual Spectrum Usage Fee (ASUF). These charges ensure industry accountability while funding rural connectivity projects.
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Compliance with National Rules
Licensees must strictly adhere to the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organization) Act, Pakistan Space Activities Rules 2024, and related regulations. PTA requires registration of all gateway hubs, VSATs, and terminal stations. Subscriber information must be maintained and provided upon demand. Operators must suspend transmissions before relocating any equipment unless specifically approved by PTA. Such strict oversight is aimed at ensuring security, lawful use, and spectrum management.
Restrictions on Services
The licence framework clearly prohibits services outside its scope. It does not allow Direct-to-Home broadcasting, mobile satellite, or direct-to-device services without additional authorizations. Internet to Earth Stations in Motion (ESIMs), radio or TV distribution, and terrestrial-only networks are also restricted. These exclusions aim to preserve fair competition and avoid overlaps with other telecom license categories, keeping regulatory distinctions intact.
Obligations on Rollout
PTA mandates timely rollout obligations. Operators must begin services within 18 months of the licence’s effective date. Within the same period, at least one Gateway Earth Station must be established in Pakistan. Operators may lease infrastructure from existing PTA licensees, provided coverage and compliance extend through the full licence term. These requirements ensure network deployment, not spectrum hoarding, while strengthening domestic infrastructure.
Role of FAB and Spectrum Management
Spectrum use for FSS remains subject to allocation by the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB). Licensees must report and address harmful interference using ITU’s Satellite Interference Reporting and Resolution System or FAB-authorized platforms. FAB retains authority as Pakistan’s notifying administration for ITU space services. This approach ensures efficient spectrum use and minimizes disruptions, particularly as global satellite networks expand rapidly.
Boost to Digital Pakistan Vision
Industry analysts suggest the decision could accelerate Pakistan’s connectivity goals. By enabling global players like Starlink, the licences may help bridge the urban-rural digital divide, support telecom backhaul, and enhance enterprise networks. However, with high entry costs and strict compliance requirements, competition may remain limited to larger international operators. Still, the development marks a milestone in expanding Pakistan’s digital infrastructure footprint.
