SINGAPORE — The undersea cables beneath the South China Sea have been crucial in delivering vital internet connectivity to Southeast Asian nations, especially as the demand for online services continues to grow. For decades, private cable companies have relied on unrestricted access to maintain and expand this extensive cable network, despite the ongoing territorial disputes between China and several other regional governments over control of the South China Sea.

Who controls these cables?

The undersea cables in the South China Sea are primarily controlled and managed by private telecommunication and cable companies. These companies often operate under international consortia made up of various telecom firms, technology companies, and sometimes government stakeholders from different countries. The maintenance, repair, and development of these cables are handled by these private entities, though they typically need to navigate the territorial claims and regulations imposed by the countries surrounding the South China Sea.

While no single country “controls” the cables, the geopolitical tensions in the region—particularly between China and other Southeast Asian nations—can influence the freedom of movement and operation of the vessels responsible for installing and maintaining the cables. China, for example, has laid claims to much of the South China Sea, which can lead to disruptions or complications for companies trying to work within these contested waters. Despite these challenges, the international community, under agreements like the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), generally supports free passage for the maintenance of these essential communication infrastructure.