Taiwan's Matsu islands cut off after submarine cable damage
Taiwan's authorities reported that submarine cables connecting Taiwan to its Matsu Islands, which are home to about 14,000 people, have been disconnected. Alternative communication solutions have been established.
The Ministry of Digital Affairs in Taipei announced the disconnection of the cables. According to the ministry, one of the two cables is completely non-functional, and the other has been severely damaged. Their operation is expected to be restored by the end of February.
The introduced wireless alternative communication has partially restored internet connectivity with the islands, located near the coast of China. The archipelago consists of 36 small islands.
Chihue Herming, Taiwan's Deputy Minister of Digital Affairs, stated on Wednesday that "no suspicious ships were detected at the time of the cable disconnection." He believes the probable cause is their "natural wear and tear." However, Herming noted that in recent years, there have been increasing instances of submarine cable damage in Taiwan caused by ships.
In 2025, Taiwan reported four cases of marine cable damage, and in 2023-2024, authorities in Taipei noted three incidents, Herming stated.
Chinese activities in the "gray zone"
Reuters notes that submarine cable failures are a significant concern in Taiwan. The authorities in Taipei have repeatedly pointed to Chinese activities in the "gray zone", which, in their opinion, are part of Beijing's ongoing pressure tactics.
Taiwan, which China considers its breakaway province, previously accused Beijing of damaging a submarine cable north of the island involving a Chinese ship. The accusation was dismissed by the ship's owner and the Chinese government as "groundless and lacking evidence."
