On October 19, TrendForce released its latest report, revealing that the ongoing development of AI data centers, inter-data center connections, and high-capacity backbone networks has significantly boosted the demand for fiber optics. Projections indicate that by 2026, the global supply-demand gap for fiber optics will widen to a staggering 180 million core kilometers. This constrained supply is expected to drive up spot prices for finished fiber optic products by 2.8 to over 5 times on an annual basis. In light of these developments, telecommunications companies are proactively revising their procurement strategies, transitioning from short-term purchases to long-term contracts as a means to secure fiber optic resources well in advance.
