Dhaka: Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, the special assistant to the Chief Adviser for the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, announced today that the operation of Starlink internet in Bangladesh will not compromise the country's data sovereignty. Addressing a press conference at the Foreign Service Academy, Taiyeb assured that Starlink will utilize local gateways to ensure all data traffic remains within Bangladesh's jurisdiction.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Taiyeb emphasized that all regulatory protocols were meticulously followed before granting Starlink the necessary approvals. The process, he noted, was thorough and deliberate. As part of the agreement, Starlink will contribute $1 per device as revenue to the government. Initially, Starlink proposed a monthly subscription fee of Tk 7,000, but negotiations led to more affordable pricing. The company now offers two packages: Starlink Residential at Tk 6,000 per month and Residential Lite at Tk 4,200 per month, with both plans requiring a one-time installation fee of Tk 47,000.
Subscribers will enjoy unlimited data and internet speeds up to 300 Mbps, with coverage extending 20-30 meters and capable of penetrating 2-3 rooms in multi-story buildings. Taiyeb referred to this development as a "historic milestone," highlighting Bangladesh's rapid regulatory process, which saw the issuance of its first Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) license within 90 days-a record in telecommunications licensing.
Taiyeb clarified that Starlink's operations are fully compliant with existing legal frameworks. The service can be used in residential settings via WiFi and is also suitable for Internet Service Provider (ISP) operations due to its integrated router system. Furthermore, he mentioned that the government is formulating a financial package to make Starlink accessible to entities providing citizen services, with plans to facilitate financing through microcredit authorities, financial organizations, and banks.
Reassuring existing internet service providers, Taiyeb stressed that Starlink's entry into the market would not disrupt ongoing broadband infrastructure projects, including those in collaboration with Chinese companies. The service is expected to significantly enhance internet access in remote regions and empower entrepreneurs with high-speed, reliable connectivity. Starlink, the satellite-based internet service provider, has officially commenced operations in Bangladesh today.