Starlink Internet Packages Pakistan
Starlink, the satellite internet service by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, is progressing toward launching its operations in Pakistan but is awaiting final government approval. The company has completed its registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), as confirmed by Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja. She mentioned that various technical and regulatory aspects are being reviewed by the Space Board Authority before granting operational clearance.
Expected Starlink Internet Packages in Pakistan:
Based on industry estimates, the anticipated packages and pricing for Starlink in Pakistan are as follows:
- Residential Package
- Speed: 50–250 Mbps
- Monthly Fee: PKR 35,000
- One-Time Hardware Cost: PKR 110,000
- Business Package
- Speed: 100–500 Mbps
- Monthly Fee: PKR 95,000
- One-Time Hardware Cost: PKR 220,000
- Mobility Package
- Speed: 50–250 Mbps
- Monthly Fee: PKR 50,000
- One-Time Hardware Cost: PKR 120,000
Global Comparison of Starlink Prices:
For reference, here are the prices of Starlink services in other countries:
- United States: $110/month, hardware $599
- United Kingdom: £89/month, hardware £499
- Australia: AUD 139/month, hardware AUD 700
Concerns and Updates:
In January 2022, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) warned the public against pre-booking Starlink services, stating that the company had not obtained a license to operate in Pakistan. The PTA also directed Starlink to halt pre-orders, which required a $99 refundable deposit, to avoid misleading consumers.
Elon Musk recently reiterated that Starlink is awaiting approval from the Pakistani government. This announcement aligns with global interest in expanding internet access through satellite-based services, particularly in regions with limited traditional connectivity infrastructure.
The government is also hiring a consultant to finalize regulations for Starlink’s operations. These steps suggest that Starlink may soon become a reality in Pakistan, offering high-speed satellite internet across the country.