Starlink’s entry into Pakistan’s satellite internet market faces delays due to data security concerns, geopolitical sensitivities, the Musk-Trump fallout and competition from Chinese firms, as authorities work on safety mechanisms.
Approval for Starlink to operate in Pakistan’s satellite internet market has been delayed due to concerns around data security, the fallout between Elon Musk and US President Donald Trump and competition from Chinese companies, local media reported on Sunday.
Starlink, owned by billionaire Elon Musk, is among several firms seeking permission to launch services in Pakistan. However, officials say unresolved security and geopolitical issues have slowed the licensing process. According to sources quoted by The Express Tribune, the government has learned that Starlink could potentially transmit certain data while bypassing Pakistan’s monitoring, regulatory and safety mechanisms.
“We cannot allow a licence to Starlink without ensuring a safety check to ensure the safety of the data of consumers in Pakistan,” a senior government official told The Express Tribune.
Officials also cited tensions between Trump and Musk as another factor behind the reluctance to grant security clearance, expressing concern that approving the licence could risk displeasing the US president. Trump and Musk were once seen as having a strong relationship before later falling out.
Pakistan’s ties with the United States have improved since Trump returned to office last year, and Islamabad is keen to avoid any move that could raise concerns in Washington.
“But the real reason is that the government has tested some cases in which Starlink was supposed to pick up some sensitive data while providing satellite-based internet services,” sources said.
The government is currently working to resolve these issues, which have led to the delay in issuing a licence to Starlink, the sources added. At present, Pakistan maintains control over its internet data, as Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) holds a majority stake in the country’s undersea cable infrastructure.
However, authorities fear they would not have similar control over satellite-based internet data and that foreign companies, particularly Starlink, might be involved in data theft.
Satellite-based services would primarily be provided in remote areas such as Balochistan, where conventional internet services are either limited or unavailable, sources further said. Currently, relevant authorities monitor internet services and can even suspend connectivity in the event of security concerns. However, officials fear they may face difficulties blocking satellite-based services when required.
At present, five companies are seeking licences for satellite-based internet services in Pakistan, with plans to invest millions of dollars in the country. According to the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB), five companies, including Starlink and China-based Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology Limited (SSST), have shown strong interest in providing satellite internet services.
Chinese companies already have an upper hand in the Pakistani market over the US firms. The Chinese companies are also seeking entry into Pakistan’s satellite internet market and view Starlink as a direct competitor.However, the registration process remains pending with the PSARB board, which has yet to finalise the licensing regime.
According to PSARB officials, the government has completed consultations with stakeholders, but requires more time to put safety mechanisms in place before allowing satellite-based internet services to commence operations.
With inputs from agencies
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