Report Overview

Global Submarine Cable System market size was USD 17,182.99 Million in 2023 and the market is projected to touch USD 33,830.00 million by 2031, at a CAGR of 10.15% during the forecast period. The global submarine cable system market refers to the industry focused on the development, deployment, and maintenance of undersea cables that facilitate data transmission, power distribution, and interconnectivity across continents, countries, and offshore facilities. These systems include components designed for both dry plant infrastructure, which manages onshore connections, and wet plant infrastructure, which encompasses cables and equipment installed underwater. Submarine cables are vital for the global economy as they underpin internet connectivity, telecommunications, and power transmission to remote areas.

Global Submarine Cable System Market report scope and segmentation.

Report Attribute

Details

Base Year

2023

Forecast Years

2024 – 2031

Estimated Market Value (2023)

USD 17,182.99 Million

Projected Market Value (2031)

USD 33,830.00 million

Segments Covered

By System, By Cable Armor, By Transmission, By Services, By End User, & By Region.

Forecast Units

Value (USD Million or Billion)

Regions Covered

North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Rest of the World (Latin America, and Middle East & Africa)

Countries Covered

U.S., Canada, Mexico, U.K., Germany, France, Italy, Spain, China, India, Japan, South Korea, among others.

Global Submarine Cable System Market dynamics

The submarine cable system market is experiencing significant growth driven by increasing demand for high-speed internet, enhanced connectivity between continents, and the rise of offshore renewable energy projects. The proliferation of data centers and cloud services has spurred investments in new cable routes to ensure low latency and data security. Furthermore, advancements in cable technology, such as high-capacity optical fibers and robust armoring, are enhancing the reliability and efficiency of these systems. The growing importance of inter-country and island connections for power and communication further fuels market expansion. Despite these drivers, challenges like high installation costs, environmental concerns, and geopolitical tensions in certain regions remain key obstacles.

Global Submarine Cable System Market

  • Drivers:

Growing reliance on digital infrastructure and renewable energy

The submarine cable system market is propelled by the increasing reliance on digital infrastructure and renewable energy sources. The surging global internet traffic, fueled by rising data center operations and cloud-based services, underscores the necessity for a robust undersea cable network. Furthermore, the rapid development of offshore renewable energy projects, especially wind farms, has elevated the demand for reliable power transmission cables to connect offshore facilities with mainland power grids. Innovations in optical fiber technology, such as higher data transfer rates and improved durability, are further enhancing the attractiveness of these systems, positioning them as indispensable assets for modern connectivity and energy needs.

  • Restraints:

High deployment and maintenance costs

The high costs associated with the deployment, maintenance, and upgrading of submarine cable systems remain a significant restraint in the market. The complexity of undersea cable installation, involving specialized vessels and advanced technologies, contributes to these expenses. Additionally, projects often face regulatory challenges and environmental impact assessments that can delay implementation and add to costs. These factors are particularly prohibitive for smaller markets or developing regions with limited financial resources, hindering the widespread adoption of submarine cable technologies.

  • Opportunities:

Advancements in cable technology and untapped markets

Technological advancements present substantial opportunities for growth in the submarine cable market. Innovations such as ultra-high-capacity cables, AI-driven predictive maintenance systems, and enhanced cable armoring materials are transforming the industry by reducing operational risks and increasing efficiency. Moreover, untapped markets in regions like Asia-Pacific and Africa, where internet penetration and digital infrastructure development are accelerating, offer vast potential for new installations. Collaborative initiatives aimed at bridging the digital divide, including intercontinental cable projects, are further expanding the market’s horizon.

  • Challenges:

Risks of cable damage and geopolitical disputes

The submarine cable system market faces significant challenges, including physical risks and geopolitical complexities. Undersea cables are vulnerable to damage caused by shipping activities, fishing operations, and natural disasters, which can disrupt global connectivity and necessitate costly repairs. Geopolitical tensions, such as disputes over territorial waters and regulatory inconsistencies between nations, further complicate the planning and execution of international cable projects. These challenges require comprehensive strategies to mitigate risks and ensure the uninterrupted operation of critical submarine cable networks.

  • Segment Overview

The submarine cable system market is segmented into various categories based on system type, cable armor, transmission type, services, and end users. By system, it includes dry plant infrastructure, which encompasses terrestrial connections and data landing stations, and wet plant infrastructure, which consists of subsea cables and repeaters. Cable armoring options vary from double-armored optical fibers, offering enhanced physical protection, to single-armored fibers designed for less demanding environments. Transmission types focus on electric power cables used in renewable energy projects and communication signal cables that ensure global connectivity. Service categories include installation, maintenance, and upgrade solutions, vital for ensuring system longevity and efficiency. End users range from the offshore wind power generation industry, dependent on power cables for energy transport, to the offshore oil and gas industry and projects aimed at inter-country and island connections, enhancing both power sharing and communication.

Global Submarine Cable System Market Overview by Region

The submarine cable system market exhibits diverse growth trends across regions. North America leads in technological advancements and large-scale deployments, driven by the increasing need for seamless data connectivity and robust renewable energy initiatives. The U.S. dominates with numerous transatlantic and transpacific cable projects. In Europe, offshore wind energy and data-driven industries are the primary growth drivers, with countries like the U.K. and Norway investing heavily in submarine infrastructure to enhance inter-regional connections. Asia-Pacific emerges as a rapidly expanding market, fueled by digital transformation, increasing internet penetration, and initiatives to connect remote islands in nations like China, India, and Japan. The Middle East and Africa regions present immense potential due to ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide and improve connectivity, with projects linking Africa to Europe and Asia being prominent. South America, led by Brazil and Chile, is witnessing a rise in investments in data centers and submarine cable projects to cater to growing internet demands and improve intercontinental connectivity.

Global Submarine Cable System market competitive landscape

The global submarine cable system market is characterized by significant contributions from major players. Sumitomo Electric Industries specializes in highly durable and efficient optical communication and power transmission cables. Subcom, LLC is renowned for its comprehensive undersea cable solutions, offering high-capacity systems and advanced technologies. Nexans focuses on high-performance cables for renewable energy and intercontinental data transfer, while Prysmian Group supports large-scale offshore wind and internet connectivity projects with innovative systems. Corning Incorporated is a leader in fiber optic solutions, enhancing data transfer speeds and capacity in submarine networks. Hengtong Group supplies high-quality submarine optical fiber cables with extensive manufacturing capabilities. Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd. holds a strong market presence with its high-speed optical fiber solutions. NKT A/S focuses on robust power transmission solutions for renewable energy projects, while NEC Corporation pioneers in end-to-end submarine cable solutions, from design to maintenance. Lastly, Mitsubishi Corporation significantly impacts the market through its involvement in large-scale projects supporting both power and communication networks.

Global Submarine Cable System Market Recent Developments

  • In September 2022, Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. announced that its 525 kV cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE)-insulated high-voltage direct current (HVDC) submarine cable system has been tested in accordance with the international standard CIGRE-TB496 and that a third-party certification body has approved the completion of the test.
  • In March 2020, Corning Incorporated had announced a series of smaller, denser additions to its portfolio of long-haul fibre and cable innovations, which included the world's first submarine and terrestrial long-haul fibres in a 200-micron diameter.
  • In March 2022, Furukawa Electric supplied a 230kV AC XLPE-insulated 1600 mm2 triple-core submarine cable. This development marked a significant milestone in the field of submarine cable technology, showcasing Furukawa Electric's commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and contributing to the advancement of high-capacity and reliable undersea power transmission systems.
  • In October 2023, NEC Corporation announced that the Patara-2 submarine cable system connecting multiple islands across Indonesia is completed and operational. This cable is owned by Telkom Indonesia, the biggest digital telco company in Indonesia, which is strongly committed to accelerating the country’s digitalization.

Global Submarine Cable System report market segmentation

ATTRIBUTE

DETAILS

By System

  • Dry Plant
  • Wet Plant

By Cable Armor

  • Double armored optical fiber (DA) Multiple
  • Single armored optical fiber (SA)

By Transmission

  • Electric Power
  • Communication Signals

By Services

  • Installation
  •  Maintenance & Upgrade 

By End User

  • Offshore wind power generation industry
  • Offshore oil & gas industry
  • Inter-Country & Island Connection

Customization Scope

  • Available upon request

Pricing

  • Available upon request

Frequently Asked Questions?

Ans - Global Submarine Cable System market forecast period is 2024 – 2031

Ans - According to global Markstats research, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.15% over the next eight years.

Ans - The expected market size for Global Submarine Cable System is USD 33,830.00 million in 2031.

Ans - The possible segments in global Submarine Cable System market are based on By System, By Cable Armor, By Transmission, By Services, By End User & By Region.

Ans - The major players in the market are Sumitomo Electric Industries, Subcom, Llc, Nexans, Prysmian Group, Corning Incorporated, Hengtong Group, Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd., Nkt A/S, Nec Corporation, Mitsubishi Corporation.