ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is moving closer to introducing new regulations for satellite-based internet services as the government completes key consultations.

Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced progress on the country’s Satellite Internet Framework.

She said consultations with relevant institutions regarding Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) regulations have been completed.

The government is now preparing to finalise the regulatory framework, potentially creating new opportunities for satellite internet providers.

Speaking at the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity Symposium, the minister highlighted Pakistan’s efforts to improve digital connectivity nationwide.

She said the upcoming regulations would support investment and encourage companies to enter Pakistan’s satellite internet market.

The Satellite Internet Framework could help expand connectivity in remote and underserved regions where traditional broadband infrastructure remains limited.

Satellite-based services can provide internet access without relying entirely on conventional underground cables or mobile network towers.

However, the availability of these services will depend on regulatory approvals, infrastructure, and commercial arrangements.

Shaza Fatima said the government intends to provide a business-friendly environment for companies interested in satellite connectivity.

She also discussed the country’s progress in expanding optical fibre infrastructure through the Universal Service Fund (USF).

According to the minister, Pakistan has installed more than 17,000 kilometres of optical fibre under USF initiatives.

This infrastructure supports efforts to extend broadband coverage and improve internet reliability across different regions.

The minister also shared figures showing significant growth in fibre broadband availability.

She said the number of homes passed by fibre networks increased from fewer than three million in 2024 to over five million.

This expansion reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and increase access to high-speed internet.

The government is also focusing on the development of fifth-generation mobile technology.

According to Shaza Fatima, Pakistan introduced 5G technology in March 2026 through an auction involving 480 MHz of spectrum.

She emphasised that connecting mobile towers to optical fibre is essential for delivering reliable 5G services.

Improved fibre connections can help mobile networks manage higher data demand and support faster internet speeds.

The minister called for additional investment in infrastructure to strengthen the country’s telecommunications sector.

Alongside satellite internet and 5G development, the government is exploring new opportunities for local internet service providers.

Commercial Value Added Services (CVAS) licences are expected to support entrepreneurs interested in offering internet services at the district level.

These licences could encourage smaller businesses to participate in Pakistan’s growing digital economy.

The government is also developing a business model designed to support internet service providers in rural communities.

Under the proposed approach, residents of underserved areas could become local providers and help improve connectivity.

Such initiatives could reduce the digital divide between major cities and smaller communities.

The Satellite Internet Framework forms part of Pakistan’s wider strategy to expand broadband infrastructure and encourage private investment.

However, the government has not announced a confirmed date for the framework’s final approval.

Specific licensing requirements, commercial conditions, and service launch timelines have also not been detailed in the supplied announcement.

Once finalised, the regulations could provide greater clarity for companies planning satellite-based operations in Pakistan.

The development represents another step toward expanding internet access through satellite technology, optical fibre, and next-generation mobile networks.

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For now, the industry awaits the government’s final regulatory announcement before further commercial developments can proceed.