Foreign firms barred from direct arms license applications in Pakistan
Elon Musk’s Starlink, Chinese Satellite company apply for licenses in Pakistan. In a technological development, Elon Musk’s Starlink Internet Services Pakistan and Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology, a Chinese satellite company, have applied for licenses to operate in Pakistan, according to State Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja.
The minister stated that applications from businesses registered with the Securities & Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) are presently being processed by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
This implies that individuals registered under SECP may submit applications, but foreign corporations are not permitted to do so directly. Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology, which specializes in satellite communication solutions, and Starlink Satellite Technology, which offers satellite-based internet services, are both seeking to grow their businesses in Pakistan.
License Procedure
The license procedure is rather simple; applications are processed by the PTA following the completion of procedures and, if necessary, security clearance from the Ministry of Interior.
With the advent of the Online Application Submission Information System (OASIS), applicants may now more easily submit documents and monitor the status of their applications from a distance.
In accordance with the Fixed Broadband Quality of Service (QoS) Regulations, 2022, the PTA is also committed to making sure internet providers adhere to international standards by routinely assessing their offerings. The goal of this strategy is to preserve dependable, high-quality connectivity throughout the nation.
Applications for radio frequency allocation are processed by the PTA‘s licensing section, which also grants licenses for a range of services, such as wireless local loop operators, cellular mobile operators, and long-distance and international licenses.
As a whole, the PTA is working to streamline the licensing process and ensure that internet services in Pakistan meet international standards
