Submarine telecommunications cables form the backbone of the global telecommunications
network. Although satellites are also commonly used to transmit voice and data traffic, modern
submarine cable systems handle the vast majority of these intercontinental transmissions. The
first recommendation listed in the Chokepoint 7 inventory is directed toward regulatory
variances in international telecommunications and proposes that member economies “maintain
programs and adequate resources and streamline processes to facilitate the deployment,
protection, and expeditious repair of submarine telecommunications cables.” Efforts to
harmonize cross-border regulations for submarine cable protection, repair and maintenance will
minimize disruptions to goods and services trade and thereby advance supply chain
performance. A key objective is to strengthen business-government partnerships in order to
streamline protection and repair measures for submarine cables, for instance facilitating the
rapid response of cable repair vessels.