Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service is awaiting authorization to begin operations in Pakistan.

Pakistan’s mobile and broadband internet speeds rank in the bottom 10 percent globally, according to Ookla, a leading web testing and diagnostics company.

Tech experts attribute Pakistan’s slow internet speeds to outdated infrastructure and frequent power outages. However, tech billionaire Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service aims to address this issue. Developed by SpaceX, the American aerospace company, Starlink is poised to launch in Pakistan but is still awaiting government approval to operate in the South Asian market.

Starlink promises faster speeds and greater reliability, even in remote areas, which could significantly enhance internet connectivity across the country. Observers believe the service could be a game-changer for Pakistan’s digital landscape.

“It aligns with Pakistan’s Digital Silk Road initiative and could boost e-commerce growth,” said Dr. Maria Sultan, Director General of the South Asian Strategic Stability Institute, highlighting the potential of Starlink to connect Pakistan to global markets through improved digital infrastructure.

HIGH COSTS
However, concerns have been raised about the affordability of Starlink, as its global pricing may be prohibitively expensive for many in Pakistan. The service requires a one-time hardware setup fee of nearly $400 and a monthly subscription cost of $126—a significant expense in a country where the average monthly income is less than $300.

Starlink is not the only player looking to enter Pakistan’s satellite internet market. Another contender awaiting approval is China’s Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology. Pakistan has indicated that permissions for these companies to operate could be granted within the next six months.

This development could provide Pakistanis with more options, according to Usama Khilji, director of Pakistan-based research and advocacy organization Bolo Bhi.

“The more companies offering services, the better it is for the country, because it increases choice and variety,” he said. “And when these companies compete, they will likely lower their prices to capture a larger share of the market.”

The entry of multiple providers could drive competition, potentially making satellite internet more accessible and affordable for Pakistani consumers.

NATIONAL SECURITY CONCERNS
Pakistan’s internet challenges extend beyond slow network speeds. Government-imposed blockades are also a significant factor, according to Top10VPN.com, an independent VPN review website. The site reported 18 instances of deliberate internet shutdowns in Pakistan last year, often tied to elections, “information control,” and protests. These disruptions cost the Pakistani economy an estimated $1.62 billion in 2023.

Experts told CNA that even with satellite internet services like Starlink, bypassing government-imposed blockades may not be feasible if these companies wish to operate within Pakistan’s regulatory framework.

Adding to the complexity are Elon Musk’s recent controversial remarks, where he linked Pakistanis to Asian grooming gangs in the UK, perpetuating harmful stereotypes. This has sparked outrage among Pakistani lawmakers, who are now demanding an apology from Musk before the government considers approving Starlink’s request to launch services in the country.

These factors highlight the multifaceted challenges facing Pakistan’s internet landscape, where technological solutions must navigate both infrastructure limitations and political sensitivities.

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