CA Orders Launch of Starlink Broadband in Bangladesh Within 90 Days

Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus

Officials revealed that during its trial phase in the country, Starlink operated using a foreign satellite gateway. However, for full commercial operations, the company must comply with the Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit (NGSO) policy, which requires the use of a local broadband gateway or International Internet Gateway (IIG).

Starlink, a subsidiary of Elon Musk's SpaceX, has been in discussions with Bangladesh's regulatory authorities regarding the necessary licensing and compliance processes. The government has emphasized that the company must meet national regulations, including spectrum allocation and security standards, before receiving full operational approval.

To mark the launch, Dr. Yunus has formally invited Elon Musk to visit Bangladesh for the official unveiling of the service. The move is aimed at addressing recurring internet shutdowns, which have disrupted business and freelance activities.

Starlink's entry is expected to significantly improve connectivity, particularly for remote communities and local entrepreneurs, who will benefit from uninterrupted internet access. Bangladeshi companies are already collaborating with Starlink to establish ground stations to facilitate satellite connectivity.

Dr. Yunus stressed that the new service would complement ongoing national initiatives led by entities such as Grameen Bank and Grameenphone to enhance internet accessibility across the country.