Bangladesh government has given its nod to Elon Musk-led Starlink to operate its satellite internet service in the country. The development marks the latest achievement for the American broadband company as it solidifies its regional presence in South Asia.
According to reports, the interim government in Dhaka issued a directive to the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) made an arrangement for the US-based satellite broadband provider to bring its satellite internet in the country. On March 29, the authority established that any foreign company including Starlink must first register at the country’s regulatory body to operate its services in the country.
It’s being said that Starlink will launch its satellite internet service commercially in Bangladesh in the next three months.
“Starlink received approval on March 29 in light of the promise we made to them to operate the service within 90 days,” BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun said.
It’s worth taking note that the Bangladeshi interim government head Muhammad Yunus participated in an online discussion with Starlink chief Musk about the latter’s service launch in the country.
Also: Which airline companies use Starlink in-flight internet?
Starlink satellite internet in Bangladesh
Starlink will trial its satellite internet on April 09, 2025 at the investment summit venue. The summit will be broadcast live on Starlink internet.
Starlink plans to apply for the Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) license. If the company proceeds in accordance with the law, it will get the license.
Bangladesh expects the arrival of Starlink satellite internet to be a milestone for the country’s broadband promotion, especially in rural areas where fiber and telecom infrastructure face difficulty in installation.
As for Starlink, the approval for service in Bangladesh is the latest hallmark as it continues to widen its foothold in South Asia. Already, Starlink has signed a collaboration with Indian telcos, and is set for the same in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, etc.