DHAKA, Bangladesh – April 9, 2025 – Fast internet from space is one step closer for Bangladesh. Starlink Internet, the satellite service from Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has started a trial run in the country.
The trial service was shown today at the Bangladesh Investment Summit in Dhaka. People at the summit could see how Starlink Internet works. This demonstration was managed by the Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL).
This trial follows important government approvals. On March 29, 2025, Starlink received investment registration approval from the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA). This gives Starlink 90 working days to start its operations.
However, this is not the final step. To sell internet services to everyone, Starlink Internet needs another license. This license is called the Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) license. It must come from the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC).
Good news came from BTRC recently. They have approved the process for giving out this type of license. Starlink still needs to apply for and receive its specific license. Officials expect Starlink to apply very soon.
Bangladesh’s leaders are keen to bring Starlink Internet here. Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus spoke with Elon Musk earlier. Mr. Yunus asked government bodies to help launch the service quickly, possibly within three months from late March.
Officials believe Starlink Internet could be ready for commercial use in the next three months, once the BTRC license is approved.
When Starlink Internet starts commercially, it must follow local rules. It will need to send its internet traffic through local gateways in Bangladesh. This helps the government manage the service properly.
Why is Starlink Internet important for Bangladesh? Many hope it will bring high-speed internet to areas that don’t have it now. This includes villages and remote places. It could help connect more people and businesses online. The government also believes it will provide a reliable internet service.
People are also asking about the cost. How much will Starlink Internet cost per month in Bangladesh? There is no official price yet. Some reports compare it to prices in nearby countries, suggesting it might cost between BDT 4,000 and BDT 6,000 per month, but this is just an estimate.
The start of the trial is a big development for Starlink Internet in Bangladesh. While the full launch depends on the final BTRC license, many are hopeful that faster, satellite-based internet will soon be available across the country.