Elon Musk's Starlink Obtains License to Function in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has approved a license for Elon Musk's Starlink to implement the satellite internet service in the nation. The license was granted on March 28, 2025, by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), and the service initiated a pilot program on April 9 at an investment summit hosted by the state in Dhaka.

Starlink, a SpaceX subsidiary company, plans to deliver high-speed internet connectivity to remote communities through the use of low Earth orbit satellites.

The technology would narrow the digital divide between rural and urban communities so that youth, women, and rural Bangladeshis would be able to participate in online activities such as freelancing.

Granting of the license comes in the wake of fears over new US tariffs that would have a catastrophic impact on Bangladesh's garment industry, which has an interest in the production of nearly 80% of Bangladesh's exports. Tariffs worth 37% sent chills over the survival of the industry to the extent that it prompted Bangladesh's interim prime minister, Muhammad Yunus, to beg US President Donald Trump for mercy.

The Starlink Operation in Bangladesh has been regarded as a strategic step in more digital connectivity and economic progress, especially towards remote places. 

The operation will be commercially launched within the next three months subject to the issuing of a Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) license.