Starlink gets nod to operate in Bangladesh
Starlink, the US-based satellite internet service provider under Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has been granted approval by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) to commence operations in the country.
The announcement was made by Ashik Chowdhury, executive chairman of BIDA, during a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka on Sunday.
The briefing was held to unveil the schedule for the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025.
Ashik Chowdhury, who also serves as the executive chairman of the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA), revealed that the approval was issued on March 29. This development marks a significant step toward enhancing internet accessibility in Bangladesh, particularly in remote and underserved areas where traditional broadband infrastructure remains limited or non-existent.
Experts believe Starlink’s entry into Bangladesh could transform the nation’s digital landscape. Leveraging its cutting-edge low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology, Starlink aims to deliver high-speed internet services to regions that have long struggled with inadequate connectivity. This innovation aligns with Bangladesh’s broader goals of bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusive economic growth.
The introduction of Starlink’s services is expected to benefit not only rural communities but also sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and e-commerce, which rely heavily on reliable internet access. By providing affordable and high-speed connectivity, the company could play a pivotal role in accelerating Bangladesh’s transition into a digitally empowered society.
Starlink’s approval underscores the growing interest of global tech giants in Bangladesh’s burgeoning digital infrastructure sector. As the country continues to position itself as an emerging hub for investment and innovation, initiatives like the upcoming Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025 are designed to attract further foreign investments and partnerships.
Scheduled to take place over four days starting Monday in Dhaka, the summit will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, and investors to explore opportunities in various sectors, including technology and telecommunications. Further details about Starlink’s rollout timeline, pricing models, and service plans in Bangladesh are anticipated to be unveiled during the event.
