Six companies, including Starlink and Spacesail, have completed corporate registration in Pakistan, marking growing interest in the country's satellite communications and space technology sector. However, commercial satellite internet services cannot begin until operators secure mandatory regulatory approvals, security clearances and telecommunications licences.
According to information submitted by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) to the Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat, the registered companies are Starlink Internet Services Pakistan, Spacesail Pakistan, Aether One, Flynautix, Galaxyspace Pakistan and Space P.
Corporate registration does not authorise commercial operations
While all six companies have completed SECP registration, they must comply with requirements established by the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) before proceeding with regulated activities.
Four companies, Aether One, Flynautix, Galaxyspace Pakistan and Space P, were incorporated after PSARB was established. Starlink Internet Services Pakistan and Spacesail Pakistan completed their registrations earlier.
Security clearances for foreign directors and shareholders associated with Starlink, Galaxyspace Pakistan and Spacesail Pakistan remain pending with the Ministry of Interior.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will issue the relevant telecommunications licences only after the required regulatory and security procedures have been completed.
Pakistan strengthens oversight of its emerging space sector
SECP has introduced a dedicated registration category for aerospace and space-related businesses in coordination with PSARB. The classification is intended to improve oversight and distinguish space industry participants from companies operating in other sectors.
Space P, a subsidiary of the National Command Authority, has been identified as exempt from the PSARB no-objection certificate requirement. However, the SECP submission also references Space P having submitted the certificate, creating an inconsistency that requires clarification.
The information was provided to the Senate committee following a request by its chairman, Senator Rana Mahmood-ul-Hassan. SECP has designated Mubasher Saeed Saddozai, Divisional Head of its Corporate Registry Department, as the focal person for further coordination.
Satellite broadband could reshape Pakistan's connectivity market
The registration of multiple satellite and space technology companies signals increasing commercial interest in Pakistan's emerging space economy.
Low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite broadband services could provide an alternative to conventional terrestrial networks, particularly in remote and underserved regions where fibre deployment and mobile infrastructure expansion remain challenging.
However, market entry will depend on more than corporate incorporation. Licensing, national security requirements, spectrum coordination and regulatory compliance will determine when satellite broadband providers can begin serving Pakistani customers.
For Starlink, Spacesail and other prospective operators, the immediate challenge is securing the necessary approvals rather than establishing a legal corporate presence.
Source: MEA Tech Watch Press Reporter
