Fiber Prices Are Rising. Is Waiting Really the Safer Strategy?
Fiber prices and supply conditions are becoming increasingly difficult to predict — and two signals from major telecom markets are worth watching. 🇺🇸 United States: Broadband operators are facing challenges securing fiber, with some reluctant to provide quotations due to limited availability. 🇨🇳 China: China Mobile has relaunched its 2026–2027 centralized procurement for standard optical cables, with an estimated requirement of 69.22 million fibre-km. Different markets, but a similar signal: fiber demand remains strong, while supply, pricing and lead times are becoming harder to predict. For FTTx operators and contractors, the question may no longer be simply:“When will fiber prices fall?” But rather:“What is the cost and project risk of waiting?” 📌 For projects planned in the coming months, reviewing fiber requirements and procurement timelines early may help reduce unexpected supply and scheduling risks. 🔎 Read the full sources: 🎧 CoBank: How Small Operators Can Pivot U...