The Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) has completed the initial draft of the country’s first-ever Space Regulatory Framework. It has now shared the draft with major government stakeholders for review and feedback.
This move marks a major step in creating a formal structure to govern space-based services in Pakistan.
Draft Sent to Major Institutions
The draft has been circulated to institutions such as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA). Other government departments have also received it. These bodies have been asked to submit their suggestions before the final version is sent to the federal cabinet for approval.
According to sources, the document outlines structured policies for key space domains. These include Satellite Communications, Earth Observation, Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT), and Space Transportation.
International Standards and Strategic Goals
The framework has been designed in line with international best practices. It provides Pakistan with a modern roadmap to regulate space activity and support long-term strategic goals.
In addition, the policy ensures that all space services are run with transparency, safety, and legal compliance.
Key Features of the Draft
The proposed framework introduces several regulatory features:
- A clear licensing process for space-based services
- Risk and safety protocols for satellite operations
- Rules for frequency coordination and orbital slot allocation
- Systems for space object registration
- Compliance with international legal commitments
Moreover, it includes strong provisions for cybersecurity, data protection, and commercial transparency.
These rules are meant to regulate not just Pakistani operators, but also international companies seeking access to the local market.
Consultancy Partnership with Access Partnership
To develop this regulatory roadmap, PSARB signed an agreement with Access Partnership on March 3, 2025. This global consultancy is assisting PSARB in building a consumer-oriented, competitive, and future-proof space framework.
Their international expertise has helped shape rules that align with both technical standards and commercial needs.
An official involved in the process said:
“We are designing this with both national security and private innovation in mind. The goal is to create balance.”
Building on Previous Policy Milestones
This new draft follows several major policy steps in Pakistan’s space sector. These include:
- The National Space Policy approved in December 2023
- The Space Activities Rules, enforced in February 2024
Each policy layer builds toward a future where Pakistan can safely manage domestic and international space operations.
Growing Interest From Global Operators
The regulatory clarity is already attracting international players. Several major satellite internet companies have shown interest in entering Pakistan’s market.
- Starlink, for example, received a temporary No Objection Certificate (NOC) in March 2025. However, the company must now reapply under the new framework.
- Other interested firms include UK-based OneWeb, China’s SSST, and Amazon’s Project Kuiper.
These companies are looking to tap into Pakistan’s underserved and rural broadband market, where satellite internet offers strong potential.
Local Alternatives in Development
Meanwhile, Pakistan is strengthening its own capabilities. The PakSat High-Throughput Satellite (HTS), developed by SUPARCO, is being positioned as a domestic alternative to foreign Low Earth Orbit (LEO) providers.
With proper regulation, local operators may soon offer competitive services in both commercial and government sectors.
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PSARB’s Central Role in Space Oversight
Under current rules, PSARB operates under the National Command Authority (NCA). It is responsible for overseeing all space-related activities.
Any satellite service provider—whether local or foreign—must first register with PSARB. Only then can they seek a license from PTA or other relevant authorities.
The new framework aims to simplify this process while ensuring full compliance with national security and technical standards.
