Starlink's service ‘areas’ in Bangladesh being determined

The ‘range’ of services of satellite internet provider Starlink, which will be launched soon in the country, is being determined.

In addition to determining the ‘range’ of servicers additional measures are also being taken with an aim to protect the interests of the domestic satellite sector and other service providers.

As per the recommendations of the Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology Ministry, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has made some changes to the Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit (NGSO) Service Guidelines that were approved earlier. These changes are now waiting for the final approval of the ministry.

According to the new guidelines, NGSO service providers (like Starlink) will not be allowed to offer certain services including intranet service (domestic data communication), earth exploration, remote sensing, and meteorological services. As per Article 16.4 of the previously approved guidelines, the NGSOs were allowed to provide intranet service (domestic data communication), earth exploration, remote sensing, and meteorological services. But, according to the newly formulated guidelines, the NGSOs can only provide broadband internet, Internet of Things (IoT), machine-to-machine communication, earth station in motion, and backhaul services for websites subject to BTRC approval.

Additionally, according to Article 7.2 of the new guidelines, NGSO companies will receive a 25% discount on fees if they partner with a local satellite operator in Bangladesh. This change is designed to encourage collaborations with local companies.

The Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology Ministry believes that foreign satellite services like Starlink could create challenges for the local satellite industry. The goal of these new changes is to help develop the local satellite sector and protect its interests.

Earlier, the Chief Adviser's press wing announced that local organisations would work with Starlink to set up ground stations in Bangladesh. A delegation from Starlink has already visited Bangladesh, and some companies have signed agreements with Starlink for joint partnerships. These partnerships will include issues like space allocation, building the stations, and maintaining the infrastructure.

Faiz Ahmed Taiyeb, special assistant to the Chief Adviser, mentioned that Starlink will provide high-speed, uninterrupted internet in both cities and remote areas of Bangladesh, including the northern and coastal regions, even during power outages or natural disasters.

He said, “As telecom-grade fiber networks are limited in Bangladesh and many remote areas still face power shortages, Starlink will help improve daily life and support the work of entrepreneurs, freelancers, NGOs, and small businesses in the country.”

On February 13 last, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and Elon Musk, the founder of SpaceX, discussed the possibility of bringing Starlink internet to Bangladesh. Later, on February 19, Professor Yunus invited Musk to visit Bangladesh and asked for the launch of Starlink services in the country.

Professor Yunus also asked Dr Khalilur Rahman, high representative to CA, to work closely with SpaceX to make sure the service launches within the next 90 working days.