Chile’s government, partnered with Google, has unveiled plans for the Humboldt Cable Project, a pioneering undersea fibre-optic cable that will link South America with the Asia Pacific region.
The cable will cover over 14,800 kilometres (9,200 miles), connecting Chile’s port city of Valparaiso with Sydney, Australia. Boasting a substantial capacity of 144 terabytes and a projected 25-year lifespan, the project is set to propel Chile into a prominent position as the digital hub of South America.
Chile’s President Gabriel Boric was enthused about the initiative, stating during a press conference in Valparaiso, “this cable will consolidate Chile’s position as the centre of digital activity in South America.”
The president also noted the far-reaching benefits of the project, anticipating its potential to create new industries, generate employment, and enhance overall work and living conditions for thousands of people.
The timing of this announcement coincides with heightened economic and political competition between China and the United States (US) in Latin America, with undersea cables emerging as a focal point in the technology rivalry. A recent Reuters investigation uncovered instances where undersea fiber-optic cable projects to Asia, including those involving Google as an investor, were originally intended to connect with China but faced rerouting or disruptions due to US diplomatic pressure.
Beyond the technological race, concerns have been raised by US authorities regarding the potential interception of data by spy agencies along planned undersea cable routes.
Notably, Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted his country’s strong ties with Chile during a diplomatic visit in October 2023, while US President Joe Biden has pledged to strengthen economic relations with Latin America as a countermeasure against China’s expanding influence in the region.
Amidst all this, the Humboldt Cable Project represents a major step forward for Chile, positioning the nation at the forefront of digital connectivity and contributing to the ongoing narrative of technological and geopolitical competition shaping the future of global communications.
