2025 marked major legal and regulatory shifts in the submarine cable industry. This review examines new national policies, resilience initiatives, market concentration concerns, environmental obligations, and emerging contractual models that are reshaping global connectivity and governance.

Governments face growing pressure to regain digital sovereignty without discouraging investment. This article outlines ten evidence-based steps to help regulators balance national interests with fair competition in the submarine cable industry, from data-driven policymaking and transparent permits to resilience measures and equitable regulatory fees. A roadmap for protecting connectivity and strengthening sovereignty.