Bangladesh has the potential to transform its internet connectivity landscape with Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit (NGSO) networks like Starlink, which could enhance education, the economy, and social inclusion through high-speed, low-latency access, according to technology experts.
Starlink's internet speeds range from 25 to 220 Mbps, with most users experiencing over 100 Mbps, while upload speeds typically range from 5 to 20 Mbps.
On Thursday, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus held a video discussion with Elon Musk, owner of SpaceX, Tesla, and X, to explore future collaborations and advance the introduction of Starlink satellite internet in Bangladesh.
Telecom and technology analyst Mustafa Mahmud Hussain highlighted that Bangladesh is on the verge of adopting NGSO satellite services to modernize its digital infrastructure. He emphasized that flexible regulations promoting competition and innovation could significantly improve connectivity for millions, unlocking new opportunities in healthcare, education, business, and community development.
“Starlink could be an effective solution for providing internet access in remote and underserved areas, addressing gaps left by existing market players,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Veon Ltd., the parent company of mobile operator Banglalink, is exploring a partnership with Starlink to bring satellite-powered mobile services to Bangladesh. According to industry insiders, Banglalink is expected to finalize a deal with SpaceX at the upcoming Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain.
Telecom expert Lt Col (Retd) Mohammad Zulfikar welcomed the potential arrival of Starlink but raised concerns over affordability. “Satellite-based internet is often expensive. The key question is: How much will it cost for consumers in Bangladesh?” he asked.
Zulfikar, currently the Secretary General of AMTOB, pointed out that SpaceX adjusts pricing based on regional markets, particularly in Southeast Asia and Africa, to promote digital inclusion. “We need to wait and see what pricing model they adopt for Bangladesh,” he added.
According to Starlink’s website, users need to purchase equipment, including a receiver or antenna, kickstand, router, cable, and power supply. The Starlink kit costs between $349 and $599, while the minimum monthly service fee for residential customers is $120. Prices for corporate users are higher. However, in certain African regions, Starlink offers lower-priced packages ranging from $10 to $30.
“If similar pricing is introduced in rural Bangladesh, it could be a game-changer for remote and underserved communities,” said Mustafa Mahmud Hussain.
Unlike traditional mobile networks and ISPs that rely on submarine cables and international terrestrial cables, Starlink provides internet through a constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites. These satellites orbit approximately 550 km above the Earth, significantly lower than traditional geostationary satellites positioned at 35,786 km.
As of January 30, 2025, Starlink has deployed 6,994 satellites worldwide. The project, launched in 2019, now operates in over 100 countries, with Bhutan being the first in South Asia to adopt the service.
To use Starlink, customers must install a satellite antenna, which connects to orbiting satellites. A Starlink router then provides high-speed internet access.
Starlink first introduced its technology in Bangladesh for testing in July 2023. Later, in October 2024, a Starlink delegation met with Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), to discuss regulatory approvals. The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has since drafted a guideline titled “Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) Satellite Services Operator” to regulate satellite internet services.
During their recent conversation, Professor Yunus and Elon Musk discussed Starlink’s potential to bridge the digital divide in Bangladesh. They highlighted its impact on the country’s youth, rural communities, and women entrepreneurs, emphasizing how affordable, high-speed internet could drive advancements in education, healthcare, and economic development.
If Starlink successfully enters the Bangladeshi market with competitive pricing, it could mark a new era of connectivity, empowering millions with greater access to global opportunities.
