China to launch pilot projects for 10-gigabit optical networks

China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) on Tuesday announced the launch of pilot projects for 10-gigabit optical networks, including trials for the establishment of "10-gigabit communities."

The plan will facilitate the rollout of 10-gigabit optical network pilot projects, driving the upgrade of networks toward ultra-high speed, large capacity and intelligent capabilities, while supporting the advancement of new industrialization, according to the notice.

The ministry underscores that 10-gigabit optical networks are the next step in the evolution of optical technology and critical pillar of new information infrastructure.

The plan seeks to advance 10-gigabit optical network services in key areas, including cloud storage, cloud computing, cloud gaming, ultra-high-definition video, glasses-free 3D, optical sensor-driven home security, and smart elderly care solutions.

The plan said 50G-PON access ports featuring tri-generation multimode compatibility (GPON, XG(S)-PON, and 50G-PON or EPON, 10G-EPON, and 50G-PON) will be deployed in residential areas, offering full compatibility with existing network access technologies and supporting seamless, future-ready upgrades.

Once deployed, the optical distribution network infrastructure in residential communities will enable 10-gigabit broadband connectivity directly to households, the ministry said.

In home network environments, the integrated deployment of fiber to the room and Wi-Fi 7 ensures ultra-gigabit connectivity to end-user devices, providing a seamless broadband experience in the 10G optical network era.

The ministry also said some users in the community pilot programs are subscribed to home broadband plans of 5000 Mbps or higher, with tested download speeds meeting the required standards and upload speeds not falling below 1000 Mbps.

By the end of 2025, pilot projects will be rolled out in cities and regions with the required conditions and infrastructure, targeting key areas such as residential communities, factories and industrial parks, the ministry said.

The transmission speed of 10-gigabit networks is 10 times faster than the widely used gigabit networks. Currently, China has 209 million gigabit optical network users, with over 20,000 typical application cases, China Media Group (CMG) reported on Tuesday.

Currently, Beijing and Shanghai have introduced policies to support the development of 10-gigabit optical network technologies, while Jiangsu Province has initiated the construction of 10-gigabit parks, according to CMG.