Another foreign company offers to provide high-speed internet for Pakistan

Another internet company has registered in Pakistan, aiming to provide high-speed satellite internet while Elon Musk's Starlink also waits for government approvals.  

Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology Limited (SSST), a Chinese space tech company, has officially set up operations in Pakistan with plans to launch a low-orbit satellite network called G60 Starlink to offer high-speed internet and satellite communication services, aiming to compete with Elon Musk's Starlink.

Last year, SSST launched 108 satellites amidst plans to have 648 in orbit by the end of 2025, with a long-term goal of 15,000 satellites by 2030. Their network is expected to provide global coverage by 2027, with more than 1,000 satellites in place.

Minister of State for IT, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, confirmed in the National Assembly that SSST is now registered in Pakistan. 

According to regulations, only locally registered companies can apply for licenses from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). Both SSST and Starlink have submitted their applications for the licenses.

Supported by the Shanghai municipal government, SSST is looking to build a new satellite internet system. 

Meanwhile, Starlink, which has already launched over 6,400 satellites, is expanding its network with plans to reach 12,000 satellites. 

This will lead to intense competition in the growing market for space-based broadband services.

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