Google is investing heavily in bridging the digital divide across the Pacific. Their $1 billion Pacific Connect initiative will see two new subsea cables laid, significantly improving connectivity between Japan, the US, and Pacific Island nations.

The project will lead to not only better internet, but also more economic benefits

This expansion builds upon prior efforts announced in October 2023, which focused on connecting the US and Australia. The new cables will span from Japan to the US, strategically linking key locations like Hawaii, Guam, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI).

Google's Pacific Connect initiative connecting US and Japan

Partnering with KDDI, ARTERIA, Citadel Pacific, and the CNMI, Google aims to boost the reliability and resilience of internet access across the region.

The cables are named Proa, referencing traditional Marianas canoes, and Taihei, meaning “peace” and “Pacific Ocean” in Japanese. Proa connects Japan to Guam via CNMI, while Taihei links Japan directly to Hawaii.

Google’s commitment goes further. They plan to extend their existing Taiwan-Philippines-US (TPU) cable to the CNMI and connect the Tabua cable (Australia-US via Fiji) to Hawaii. An additional interlink cable between Hawaii, Guam, and CNMI will further enhance network performance.

This project promises not just better internet access but also economic advantages. Google estimates their past decade of network investments in Japan contributed over $400 million to the GDP. Similar benefits, including job creation and skill development, are expected across the Pacific. Governor Palacios of the CNMI applauded the project, highlighting how the name “Proa” reflects “connectivity and cultural heritage,” aligning with their vision for a more connected Pacific.

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