Starlink has received official approval from BIDA to begin operations in Bangladesh, paving the way for high-speed satellite internet across underserved regions.
 |
| BIDA clears Starlink to operate in Bangladesh, enabling satellite internet rollout aimed at transforming digital access in remote and rural areas. Image: CH |
Dhaka, Bangladesh — April 6, 2025:
Starlink, the satellite-based internet service operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has received the green light to begin operations in Bangladesh following approval from the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA).
The announcement came during a press briefing held at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka, ahead of the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025. Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman (Senior Secretary) of both BIDA and the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA), confirmed the clearance, stating, “We gave the approval on the 29th of last month.”
In accordance with regulatory procedures, all foreign firms must register with BIDA before conducting business in the country. Starlink’s successful registration means it can now proceed with deploying its low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite infrastructure to provide fast, reliable internet — particularly targeting underserved and geographically isolated communities.
This development is expected to strengthen Bangladesh’s digital transformation efforts by enhancing nationwide connectivity, supporting smart governance, and facilitating access to education and e-commerce in rural areas. Starlink’s entry also underscores the government’s broader aim to attract high-impact foreign tech investments and solidify the country’s position in the global digital economy.