China-made Optical Fiber Prices Quadruple in Russia Amid Global Shortage

09:36; 26 February 2026 year

### Russian Telecom Sector Hit by Optical Fiber Price Surge The Russian telecommunications market is experiencing a sharp increase in prices for optical fiber, a key element of digital infrastructure. Chinese suppliers have raised prices for Russian companies by 2.5 to 4 times since the beginning of 2026, according to industry representatives cited by the Russian business daily **Vedomosti**. The price hike is directly linked to the global hype around artificial intelligence technologies. Massive construction of data centers and expansion of cloud infrastructure worldwide have led to unprecedented demand for fiber-optic products. Production capacities are struggling to keep up with growing needs, creating a shortage and driving prices up. China, which accounts for over 60% of global optical fiber production, has effectively become the sole external supplier for Russia. If in early 2025 a kilometer of fiber cost around 16 yuan, by January 2026 the price had risen to 40 yuan. This increase significantly raises the cost of building and upgrading communication networks. The situation is further complicated by domestic factors. The only Russian manufacturer of optical fiber, the plant of JSC **Optical Fiber Systems** in Saransk, was taken out of operation following a series of air attacks in spring 2025. Its annual capacity was around 4 million kilometers of fiber, which was used by about twenty cable factories across the country. After production halted, Russian companies had to fully switch to imports from China, as purchases from the US and Japan became impossible due to sanctions. Experts believe that complete dependence on a single supplier and ongoing global shortages could slow down the development of network infrastructure in regions. The additional burden on telecom operators may eventually affect end consumers through higher rates for home and mobile internet.

Investment

Events

Niches and markets

Technologies and trends

Development infrastructure