PTA Orders Starlink to Stop Taking Pre-Bookings in Pakistan

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has ordered Starlink Satellite Broadband to stop taking pre-order bookings from intended customers in Pakistan as the company has not been granted a license for provision of internet services in the country.

Starlink Pakistan, Starlink Pre Bookings, Starlink — PTA Orders Starlink to Stop Taking Pre-Bookings in Pakistan

In a press release, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has informed the general public that Starlink Satellite Broadband has not obtained a license from PTA to operate and provide internet services in Pakistan. “Therefore, general public is advised in their own interest that they must refrain for engaging in any pre-booking orders being placed on Starlink or any of its associated websites.” said PTA on Twitter.

PTA has already taken up the matter with Starlink to stop taking pre-order bookings from intended consumers with immediate effect as the Company has not been granted any license for provision of internet services in Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/rlWoUt7SQg
— PTA (@PTAofficialpk) January 19, 2022

The directions came after reports that Starlink Satellite Broadband was asking customers in Pakistan to pay a deposit of USD 99 (refundable) as pre-order for equipment and internet services, which led to PTA ordering Elon Musk’s Starlink to stop taking any pro-bookings in Pakistan.

It is pertinent to mention that last month (December 2021), the US based global satellite broadband provider Starlink’s Director Middle East & Asia, Mr. Ryan Goodnight and Head of Global Site Acquisition Mr. Ben Macwilliam visited Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Headquarters and met with Chairman PTA, Maj General Amir Azeem Bajwa (R) and Executive Director, Frequency Allocation Board.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed matters pertaining to provision of satellite broadband connectivity in Pakistan and Starlink’s future plans for connecting Pakistan to their global network. Chairman PTA apprised Starlink representatives about PM’s vision of Digital Pakistan and prospects in Pakistan’s evolving market for quality broadband internet. He assured Starlink’s representatives about PTA’s support in line with regulatory framework for Starlink’s operations in Pakistan.

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