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Connecting fiber optic cables for China Mobile China Unicom and China Telecom

Fiber and communications infrastructure knowledge brief Published 27 Jun 2026

Prepared for preliminary research by the ENSAA knowledge desk. Confirm optical interfaces, port or core capacity, electrical input and output, enclosure protection, thermal design and installation limits against current standards and product documentation.

China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom are jointly developing the EMA subsea fiber-optic cable network to connect Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Overview of the EMA Subsea Cable ProjectChina's three major state-owned telecom operators—China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom—are collaborating on a $500 million undersea fiber-optic cable network called EMA (Europe-Middle East-Asia). This project aims to establish one of the world's most advanced and far-reaching subsea cable systems, providing high-capacity internet connectivity across multiple continents.

Route and Technical Details

The EM

A cable will start in Hong Kong, connect to China's Hainan Island, and extend to Singapore, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and France. The system is designed to rival the US-backed SeaMeWe-6 cable, following a roughly parallel route. The cable will be manufactured and laid by HMN Technologies, a Chinese firm previously associated with Huawei, and will receive subsidies from the Chinese government.

Strategic and Operational Aspects

Ownership and Partnerships: Chinese telecom firms are expected to own more than half of the network, while foreign partners are being considered for the remaining share. Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs): The consortium has signed MoUs with Orange, PTCL, Telecom Egypt, and Zain Saudi Arabia, with ongoing discussions with Singtel and other potential partners. Timeline: Contracts are expected to be finalized by the end of the year, with the cable projected to be operational by 2025.

Geopolitical and Technological Significance

The EM

A project reflects China's effort to secure independent international internet infrastructure amid rising tensions with the US. The initiative follows China Mobile and China Telecom's withdrawal from the SeaMeWe-6 consortium after the US awarded the construction contract to SubCom instead of a Chinese firm. By deploying EMA, China aims to ensure sovereign control over critical subsea fiber-optic connectivity and enhance its global digital influence.

Summary

Through the EMA subsea cable, China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom are jointly connecting Asia, the Middle East, and Europe with a high-capacity fiber-optic network. The project combines strategic investment, advanced technology, and international partnerships to create a robust alternative to US-backed subsea cable systems, with operations expected to commence by 2025.

Connecting fiber optic cables for China Mobile China Unicom and China Telecom - ENSAA OPTICAL NETWORKS [PDF]

Connecting fiber optic cables for China Mobile China Unicom and China Telecom

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Technical note

This reference is intended for preliminary fiber and communications infrastructure research. Optical interface, fiber type, port or core capacity, electrical input and output, enclosure protection, cooling, installation limits and applicable standards must be verified for the specific project.

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