Iran Expands International Connectivity and Boosts Regional Data Transit

The Telecommunication Infrastructure Company of Iran (TIC) is expanding the country’s international telecommunications infrastructure, with a focus on strengthening network resilience, increasing regional data transit and developing alternative connectivity routes between Asia and Europe.

Speaking at a press conference, Bezhad Akbari, Deputy Minister of Information and Communications Technology and CEO of TIC, highlighted the company’s recent initiatives to enhance Iran’s role in the regional digital connectivity ecosystem.

He stated: TIC has increased its international points of presence to improve the resilience of international communication and strengthen the management of potential disruptions to international links. The company plans to further expand its presence at key global traffic exchange locations, using Iran’s strategic geographic position to support regional digital connectivity.

He emphasized: Data transit through Iran has grown by approximately 100 percent over the past two years, reflecting the country’s potential as a regional connectivity route.

CEO of TIC noted: we are seeking to leverage Iran’s geographic position to facilitate data connectivity between neighboring countries and major international destinations, including routes linking Asia and Europe as well as north-south corridors.

He continued: Iran has the potential to serve as an alternative terrestrial route for regional and international data traffic, complementing existing connectivity corridors. According to TIC, developing such routes can contribute to greater diversity and resilience in regional communications networks and create new opportunities for international carriers and digital infrastructure providers.

At the end of the press conference, he stated: TIC is also pursuing the development of submarine cable infrastructure in the Persian Gulf. The company has held discussions with regional countries, operators and international consortiums regarding several submarine cable projects. Expanding submarine connectivity is expected to enhance the resilience and diversity of Iran’s international communications infrastructure and strengthen the country’s role in the region’s digital connectivity landscape.