Algeria and Tunisia are moving forward with plans to build a new submarine cable linking North Africa to Italy, a project designed to expand cross-Mediterranean data capacity as demand for digital services continues to rise.

The announcement followed technical talks in Tunis between officials from both countries, according to Algeria’s Ministry of Post and Telecommunications.

The proposed link reflects growing pressure on regional infrastructure as cloud computing, streaming platforms and enterprise data services drive higher bandwidth consumption across North Africa and Europe.

The two neighbors are also seeking to strengthen existing telecom cooperation, including upgrades to terrestrial fiber connections and coordination on broader digital infrastructure policy.

Officials say the goal is to improve network reliability while supporting long-term economic digitization efforts.

Growing pressure on regional digital infrastructure

Submarine cables carry more than 95% of global internet traffic, making them a critical part of international connectivity.

Governments across the Mediterranean are increasingly investing in redundancy and new routes to reduce the risk of service disruptions and improve overall network stability.

For Algeria and Tunisia, the planned cable comes at a time when demand for data-intensive services is accelerating, driven in part by cloud computing adoption and artificial intelligence applications.

The new system is expected to add capacity and strengthen links between North Africa and Europe.

Existing links and diversification strategy

Both countries already maintain several connections to Europe. Algeria is linked through systems such as Orval-Alval to Spain and Medex to France, while Tunisia has established routes to Italy and participates in regional projects including the Medusa submarine cable system.

The new Algeria–Tunisia–Italy route is intended to complement, rather than replace, existing infrastructure.

Officials say the focus is on diversifying routes, reducing reliance on single pathways, and improving resilience across regional networks.

Broader digital cooperation agenda

Beyond the submarine cable project, both sides agreed to upgrade their existing terrestrial fiber link to improve cross-border capacity and service reliability.

The discussions also touched on reducing mobile roaming costs for travelers and businesses operating between the two countries.

Officials further explored cooperation on satellite-based Internet of Things technologies and agreed to set up a joint technical team to address radio interference in border regions.

Both countries also aim to align positions ahead of the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference, underscoring broader efforts to coordinate digital policy across North Africa.