Globalization does not simply mean more ships; it also means more information flows. No wonder that data traffic is predicted to grow at a rate of 45% per year over the next decade. This dramatic increase in volume, along with the diversity of the content which is exchanged, requires upgraded interconnection infrastructure as well as data storage facilities. In 2019, the port of Marseille-Fos announced the construction of new sub-sea cable landing infrastructure which will provide a reliable and convenient plug & play interface for sub-sea cables coming from all over the world to the Marseille area. In that way, the port wants to set the path towards the maritime data-hub concept: a global digital gateway offering smart and reliable landing infrastructure for subsea cables.
The port will deliver the first phase of the dedicated infrastructure by Q3 2019, which can accommodate up to six cables. A one-stop shop system within the French administration for permitting process will be implemented simultaneously in Marseille to facilitate applications. Aiming to offer a fully integrated landing solution to its clients, the port is also building secure facilities tailored to accommodate the Power Feed Equipment of sub-sea cables.
The vision of the Port of Marseille-Fos is to be fully positioned as a maritime digital gateway. Not only is Marseille ideally positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia, but also benefits from a favorable seabed for this type of infrastructure. Connecting submarine cables through the Port of Marseille also makes sense given the current location of carrier-neutral data centers, both within and near the port area.