Shaza Fatima says Starlink launch on track for December
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Minister of State for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja has dismissed speculation over licencing delays for Starlink, stating that the satellite internet provider is on track to launch in Pakistan by December 2025.
Speaking informally to reporters on Friday, the minister said that a consultant has been appointed by the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (SUPARCO) to draft regulatory frameworks for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, with the rulebook expected to be finalised by June.
'There is no delay in Starlink's licensing. The process is ongoing and structured,' she said, noting that Starlink has remained in contact with Pakistani authorities and is expected to spend the next five to six months building infrastructure ahead of its operational debut.
Shaza also revealed that Chinese satellite internet firms, including Galaxy Space and Shanghai Space, have expressed interest in entering the Pakistani market. However, she clarified that no formal applications have yet been submitted.
'Our space policy is open and non-exclusive,' she added. 'We will facilitate any company that meets the criteria and comes forward.'
Addressing the broader telecom sector, the minister acknowledged financial challenges, citing an average revenue per user (ARPU) of Rs270, the lowest in the region. She attributed the strain to currency fluctuations and rising electricity prices.
The minister noted that the upcoming spectrum auction could help improve telecom services and confirmed that companies had submitted budget proposals for the next fiscal year, which are being reviewed in coordination with the Ministry of Finance.
On the ongoing shutdown of social media platform X in Pakistan, Shaza rejected public claims that the move curtails freedom of expression.
'X has not engaged with the IT Ministry since the ban,' she stated, suggesting that any communication has likely occurred only with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
'X is not in compliance with Pakistani laws,' she added, while noting that other platforms remain in contact and respond to government requests.
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