Starlink could offer faster and more reliable internet in Pakistan, but its relatively high cost could keep the service out of reach for most households across the country.
Latest analysis by Data Darbar says low-earth-orbit satellite internet is generally more expensive than the fixed broadband services used by average households, making it more likely to attract premium customers rather than become a mass-market replacement for broadband internet.
The potential customer base in Pakistan could be concentrated among higher-income households, businesses and users in remote areas where conventional broadband is either unavailable or too expensive to deploy.
The economics are particularly important because fibre remains the more practical option in densely populated urban areas. Satellite capacity is shared across an area, meaning performance can also deteriorate as subscriber density increases.
The report suggests that Starlink is more likely to complement Pakistan’s existing connectivity networks than replace them.
Remote offices, enterprises requiring backup connectivity and households in areas poorly served by fibre or mobile networks could represent stronger markets.
Regulatory Headache
Satellite internet operators like Starlink could also face a combined revenue burden of around 8.5 percent under Pakistan’s regulatory framework. Entering the market will be tough.
Data Darbar said satellite operators would face recurring charges equivalent to about 2.5 percent of annual gross revenue, including license, Universal Service Fund and spectrum charges.
A separate 6 percent levy on gross revenue would also go towards a space-development fund, taking the combined burden to roughly 8.5 percent.
Operators would also be required to establish a gateway earth station in Pakistan within 18 months and route domestic traffic through it. User data would have to be kept within the country, while operators would need lawful interception capabilities.
Considering all the above, Starlink will likely just be a premium connectivity option in Pakistan rather than an affordable alternative for the average internet user.
The post Starlink May Be Too Expensive for Ordinary Pakistanis If Launched appeared first on ProPakistani.
