TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of Digital Affairs (MODA, 數位發展部) announced on Thursday (Sept. 26) that Taiwan has the potential to become a global communications submarine cable hub.
MODA and the Telecom Technology Center (TTC, 財團法人電信技術中心) hosted a lecture on Thursday focused on the international submarine cable and Internet Data Center (IDC) industry layout.
MODA highlighted that submarine cables play a crucial role in global communications, with over 95% of international internet traffic transmitted through these cables.
MODA stated that Taiwan's strategic location and technological prowess have attracted international cloud giants Google, Microsoft, and Amazon to invest in and establish data centers.
According to MODA, around 436 submarine communication cables exist globally. Being surrounded by the sea, Taiwan relies heavily on these cables for island and international communication.
However, MODA analyzed that Taiwan's location on the Pacific Ring of Fire poses long-term threats from earthquakes and geopolitical tensions, potentially leading to communication disruptions if submarine cables are damaged during emergencies.
Deputy Minister Herming Chiueh (闕河鳴) stated that MODA promotes a safety protection plan to foster the robust development of submarine cables, IDCs, and the telecommunications industry chain.