FCC Weighs Chinese Optical Import Ban

The Federal Communications Commission is considering a measure that could restrict imports of new Chinese optical transceivers used to connect equipment across U.

S. data centers. Officials cite risks involving data theft, malware, espionage, and service disruption, while the measure could affect Zhongji Innolight and other suppliers with significant global market positions. A restriction could raise costs, tighten supplies, and delay deployments because U.S. and allied manufacturers do not appear able to replace Chinese capacity quickly, particularly for high-speed 800G and 1.6T modules.