Starlink is making progress toward launching its satellite internet services in Bangladesh, with key partnerships and regulatory discussions underway.
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Partnership with Veon and Banglalink
- Dubai-based telecom company Veon, which owns Banglalink, is exploring a partnership with Starlink to provide satellite-powered mobile services in Bangladesh. This collaboration aims to bridge connectivity gaps, particularly in remote and disaster-prone areas where traditional networks struggle 【6】.
- A formal agreement between Banglalink and SpaceX may be finalized at the upcoming Mobile World Congress in Barcelona 【8】.
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Regulatory Challenges and Government Discussions
- The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) is drafting licensing guidelines for Starlink’s operations. These include security concerns and pricing issues, as satellite-based internet is significantly more expensive than local broadband options 【7】.
- In February 2025, Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus held a video discussion with Elon Musk to explore Starlink’s role in enhancing Bangladesh’s digital infrastructure 【8】.
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Potential Benefits and Market Concerns
- Starlink promises to provide high-speed internet (25–220 Mbps) in remote regions, benefiting schools, businesses, and freelancers 【8】.
- However, its high cost remains a concern, as the hardware costs around $599 (BDT 65,959) and the monthly fee is $120 (BDT 13,213), making it less affordable than local broadband providers 【7】.
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Technical Tests and Future Outlook
- Starlink previously conducted technical tests in Bangladesh with the Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL), achieving promising results 【7】.
- While no official launch date has been confirmed, ongoing discussions suggest an announcement could come soon.
Starlink’s entry could revolutionize Bangladesh’s internet landscape, but affordability and regulatory approval remain key hurdles.
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