FCC Proposes Ban on Chinese Technology in Undersea Cables

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced plans to implement new regulations prohibiting the use of Chinese technology and equipment in undersea submarine communication cables connecting to the United States. This initiative aims to mitigate potential national security threats posed by foreign adversaries, particularly China.

Undersea cables are critical infrastructure, carrying approximately 99% of global internet traffic. Their security is paramount, as vulnerabilities could lead to espionage, data breaches, and disruptions in global communications. The FCC's proposed rules would prevent companies from connecting undersea cables to the U.S. that incorporate Chinese technology or equipment. The agency also plans to seek public input on additional measures to safeguard submarine cable infrastructure.

This decision reflects longstanding U.S. apprehensions about China's involvement in global telecommunications infrastructure and the associated risks of espionage and data security breaches. The United States has previously blocked several cable projects linking to Hong Kong due to similar concerns.

The FCC's proposed regulations align with previous legislative actions aimed at securing U.S. communications networks. The Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019 prohibits federal funds from being used to purchase communications equipment or services posing national security risks and establishes a reimbursement program for replacing such equipment. The Secure Equipment Act of 2021 mandates the FCC to prohibit authorization of radio frequency devices that pose a national security risk.

Recent developments have heightened the urgency for enhanced protections. In October 2024, a bipartisan group of U.S. senators urged President Biden to review the security of global undersea communications cables, emphasizing potential vulnerabilities and threats from nations like China and Russia. In November 2024, the FCC announced plans to review its regulation of undersea communications cables, marking the first major overhaul since 2001, to address evolving technology, economic, and security landscapes. In March 2025, the FCC established a national security council to counter Chinese cyber threats and maintain a technological edge over China.

The proposed regulations aim to mitigate risks of espionage and data breaches by preventing foreign adversaries from accessing critical communication infrastructure. U.S. companies involved in undersea cable projects may need to seek alternative suppliers, potentially leading to increased costs and project delays. This move could further strain U.S.-China relations, as it directly targets Chinese technology firms and their involvement in global telecommunications infrastructure.

The FCC's proposed regulations represent a significant step in the U.S. government's ongoing efforts to secure its communications infrastructure from potential foreign threats. This move underscores the delicate balance between maintaining global connectivity and ensuring national security in an increasingly interconnected world.