Starlink Gains Approval to Operate in Bangladesh

The interim government in Bangladesh has authorized SpaceX’s Starlink to deliver satellite internet services within the nation. Starlink utilizes low Earth orbit satellites to provide internet connectivity to areas with limited access.

According to reports, Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh, sanctioned the license on April 28. This decision positions Bangladesh as the second South Asian nation, following Sri Lanka, to introduce Starlink services.

In March, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) released licensing guidelines referred to as the “Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) Satellite Services Operator in Bangladesh”.

Following this structure, Starlink Services Bangladesh submitted an application for the NGSO license in early April, including all required documentation and fees to secure operational authorization.

Subsequently, the BTRC reached a decision in April to grant preliminary approval for Starlink’s operational activities.

Earlier this year, Elon Musk, the tech entrepreneur and owner of SpaceX, discussed the introduction of Starlink to Bangladesh with Muhammad Yunus.

At the time, both emphasized the service’s potential to unlock opportunities for “Bangladesh’s enterprising youth, rural and vulnerable women, and remote communities,” according to a statement released by Yunus’ media office.

Meanwhile, Pakistan—which boasts a significant community of freelance workers—is still anticipating the commencement of Starlink’s operations.

Last month, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, the Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, stated that the licensing procedure for Starlink would soon be finalized, projecting a launch of the satellite-based internet service in Pakistan by November 2025.

“Once the license is issued, we will proceed with the installation of essential equipment, making Starlink accessible in Pakistan starting from November,” Shaza Fatima informed the National Assembly’s standing committee.

In March, Islamabad approved the provisional registration of Starlink, setting the stage for the initiation of satellite-based internet services in the country.