Google helps get Humboldt cable between Chile and Sydney off the ground

Google is set to help get the Humboldt submarine cable project between Chile and Sydney off the ground, after several years of planning. 

The company said it would participate in the project alongside Chilean state-run infrastructure fund Desarrollo País and Telecommunications of French Polynesia (OPT).

In a blog post, Google said a cable linking South America with the Asia Pacific region “has been an ambition of the Chilean government since 2016, and we’re partnering to turn this vision into reality.”

“Australia welcomes this new trans-Pacific cable connecting Australia and Latin America for the first time, supporting the growth of digital and economic ties,” federal communications minister Michelle Rowland said.

“This new cable route will enhance Australia’s global connectivity and complement our work with Pacific countries to secure better access to the global digital economy.” 

Desarrollo País’ general manager Patricio Rey Sommer said Google’s participation “marks a significant milestone for the flagship project, the Humboldt submarine cable.” 

“After years of dedicated work, we are now entering the materialisation phase,” Sommer said.

“Our goal is to position Chile as a global digital hub, seamlessly connecting countries in the region with the Asia-Pacific.”

Humboldt is expected to interconnect with the South Pacific Connect cable system being built by Google and Vocus.