Mobile Optical Cable Order Demand

Mobile optical cable demand is surging globally, driven by large-scale carrier procurement, AI infrastructure expansion, and 5G network deployments.

Recent Procurement Trends

China Mobile has significantly increased its optical cable orders in recent years. From 2021 to 2022, the company procured approximately 4. 47 million sheath kilometers (equivalent to 143.

2 million core kilometers), marking a 36% increase compared to 2019 levels, with a total procurement value approaching 9. 2 billion yuan. In 2026-2027, China Mobile completed a special fiber optic cable procurement covering 79,400 sheath kilometers (3.

13 million core kilometers), with eight manufacturers selected and most bids reaching the full price ceiling. This reflects a strong recovery in both volume and pricing in the optical cable industry. Market DriversAI and Data Center Expansion: Generative AI and hyperscale data centers are driving high-speed fiber interconnections, particularly single-mode fiber for long-distance links.

Optical cable consumption for AI applications grew 138% in 2024 and is projected to grow 80% in 2025. Investments by companies like Meta in new data centers further boost demand for high-density fiber assemblies, MPO/MTP modules, and armored cables. 5G and FTTH Deployments: Telecom operators worldwide are expanding 5G backhaul networks and fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) infrastructure, increasing the need for high-fiber-count cables capable of supporting large data volumes.

In the U. S., fiber broadband availability exceeds 60 million households, with over 5,400 data centers driving demand for dense optical cabling. Global Supply Chain and Strategic Investments: Companies like HFCL have secured multi-year supply agreements for high-fiber-count cables, highlighting the strategic importance of optical fiber in digital infrastructure.

Supply chain resilience and regional production capabilities are increasingly critical as demand grows.

Implications for Suppliers

The combination of carrier procurement, AI-driven infrastructure, and 5G expansion ensures stable orders and improved profitability for optical cable manufacturers. Key products in demand include: Armored cables for secure installationsFTTH and FTTX systems for residential and enterprise networksMPO/MTP connectivity components for high-density interconnectionsProfessional patch cords and optical fiber assemblies OutlookThe global fiber optic cable market is projected to grow from USD 5. 54 billion in 2026 to USD 11.

11 billion by 2035, representing a CAGR of 7. 21%. This growth is underpinned by expanding digital infrastructure, cloud computing, and high-speed data transmission needs, indicating sustained demand for mobile optical cable orders in both carrier and enterprise segments.