Starlink launch to boost regional digitalisation in Kazakhstan

On 13 August 2025, Starlink officially confirmed the launch of its services in Kazakhstan. In addition to delivering high-speed internet for private users, this next- generation satellite network is set to unlock fresh opportunities for the country’s regional development.

Over years of steady digitalisation, Kazakhstan has achieved significant milestones: 92% of public services are now delivered online, predominantly accessed via smartphones. In 2024, IT service exports reached USD 545 million, with forecasts indicating this figure could double by 2026. Yet, the spread of digital technologies still moves largely from the centre outwards, leaving many smaller communities outside the digital economy due to limited coverage from traditional internet providers.

Addressing this gap requires satellite internet — connectivity that is not dependent on terrestrial infrastructure. Despite growing demand, current satellite service providers in Kazakhstan mainly focus on low-bandwidth solutions. The launch of Starlink’s high-performance network opens new horizons for regional digitalisation.

This next-generation connectivity will provide equal access to online education, stimulate small business growth (e-commerce and POS payments), and enable large enterprises in remote regions to work with cloud systems on par with their central offices.

In 2023–2024, Starlink was successfully tested in rural schools across Kazakhstan. The pilot confirmed the technical readiness of such solutions for large-scale adoption. Service tariffs will be announced in autumn 2025, but the market is already actively preparing for the change.

IEC Telecom Group, one of Starlink’s key global distributors, has been present in Kazakhstan for over 20 years. The Group has successfully launched next-generation services in numerous countries, and IEC Telecom Kazakhstan will soon deliver its full suite of offerings to local customers.

“The development of digitalisation in Kazakhstan serves as an example not only for Central Asia but for other regions worldwide. IEC Telecom Kazakhstan is ready to participate in this process and to launch new projects in the country, drawing on our international experience in implementing Starlink-based solutions. It is not only a matter of know-how — as a direct Starlink partner, we have prepared special tariffs for Kazakhstan,” commented Nabil Ben Soussia, Chief Commercial Officer, IEC Telecom Group.

IEC Telecom’s Starlink portfolio includes integrated solutions for regional digitalisation, GSM backhaul, connectivity for remote enterprises, and maritime communications. With today’s official launch, Kazakhstan is poised to gain new prospects both for regional growth and for advancing its digital transformation nationwide.