FCC Tightens Rules on 99% of Internet Cables, Fast-Tracking U.S. Firms Over China
Updated
Updated · Reuters · Jun 3
FCC Tightens Rules on 99% of Internet Cables, Fast-Tracking U.S. Firms Over China
3 articles · Updated · Reuters · Jun 3
Summary
The FCC proposed stricter oversight for submarine cable systems, including first-time licenses for line terminal equipment that links undersea networks to U.S. terrestrial facilities.
The plan would speed approvals for trusted operators such as Meta and Google if they meet tougher espionage, data-security and compliance requirements.
Chinese suppliers would face a higher bar as operators seeking fast-track treatment would have to forgo foreign equipment deemed a security risk.
More than 400 subsea cables carry nearly all international internet traffic, and U.S. officials have spent the past year warning about sabotage and data threats tied to China and Russia.
The move builds on the FCC's 2025 ban on listed firms' cable equipment—including Huawei, ZTE, China Telecom and China Mobile—and could widen restrictions to any foreign adversary.
Is the global race for secure internet cables actually making the entire system more fragile and vulnerable?
As nations build separate digital backbones, who will ultimately control the world's flow of information?
FCC Overhauls Submarine Cable Rules (2025): National Security, Geopolitical Tensions, and Global Connectivity
Overview
In August 2025, the FCC introduced major new regulations for submarine cables, which took effect in November. These rules are designed to strengthen national security by addressing risks from foreign adversaries, while also making it easier to expand critical digital infrastructure. The FCC’s approach aims to support the U.S. in maintaining its leadership in artificial intelligence and next-generation technologies. By adopting a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the FCC is ensuring ongoing updates to address evolving threats, balancing the need for secure, resilient networks with the rapid growth of undersea cable systems.