PCCW Global, Tata launch TGN-IA linking Japan and Singapore

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Asian telecoms PCCW Global and Tata Communications have formally launched the TGN-Intra Asia Cable System (TGN-IA), linking Japan with Singapore via Hong Kong. The launch ceremony comes ahead of the operational launch of the cable system, which is expected to happen by July. The 6,700-km system will not be fully operational until the third quarter of this year when it lands in Vietnam. The system connects key points of presence in Tokyo, Hong Kong and Singapore, and will have branch extensions to the Philippines and Vietnam.

Speed is of the essence for subsea cable companies. The current demand for more bandwidth and better latency is spurring system rollouts, as cablecos seek new routes. It is all about first mover advantage: those that are second or even third to market in each area will find it difficult to attract customers.