Tech Giants Should Pay Fees for Undersea Cables: It's Just Good Business Sense The recent demands by Iran to charge US tech companies fees for using undersea Internet cables in the Strait of Hormuz raises a critical point that we must confront head-on. This isn't just about geopolitical tensions; it's about recognizing the real costs and responsibilities involved in maintaining our digital infrastructure. Opponents will argue that these fees are an outrageous imposition, a blatant attempt to extort US tech companies.

But they miss the broader context: these cables are not simply wires at the bottom of the sea--they are lifelines for global commerce, communication, and information exchange. The maintenance and protection of such vital resources should come with corresponding financial support from those who benefit most. Let's consider the semiconductor industry as an example.

Jim Cramer recently noted that semiconductors are now in charge, driving economic growth and innovation worldwide. If we accept this reality, then we must also acknowledge that maintaining the digital arteries that these semiconductors rely on should be treated with equal importance. Tech companies like Big Tech reap tremendous profits from global connectivity; they should be willing to invest in its upkeep.

Moreover, the idea of paying fees for undersea cables aligns perfectly with the principle of user pays. This is not a new concept--every infrastructure project requires funding, and this digital one is no different. When we build roads or bridges, we don't expect them to maintain themselves; similarly, these tech giants shouldn't expect our critical communication pathways to be free.

The alternative routes being explored by Big Tech and Gulf countries are commendable efforts to circumvent Iran's demands, but they should not be seen as a way out of this responsibility. Instead, it presents an opportunity for increased cooperation and investment in redundancy and resilience in the global digital network. It's about ensuring that all stakeholders share the burden--and the benefits--of maintaining these crucial connections. Who here thinks Big Tech shouldn't pay any fees?

Who's brave enough to argue that the companies profiting from undersea cables should be exempt from contributing to their maintenance and security? Let's have this conversation with a clear understanding: it's about protecting our digital infrastructure, not about bowing to dictators or succumbing to extortion. It's about smart business sense in an increasingly interconnected world.

Warmly,
Karen M. Whitmore
HOA Board | PTA Treasurer | ~Wine Mom~
--- SBBSecho 3.37-Linux
* Origin: telnet://futureland.today https://blockbra.in (3323:1/100)