Optical Fibre--continued/H1 shipments of 75 million fibre-km have 2008 headed for 150 million

摘要

On a worldwide basis, the peak quarter for bare fibre shipments was the third quarter in 2004, 2005, and 2006. In 2007, the peak shifted to Q4. For the years from 1999 to 2003, the peak quarter varied and was affected initially by a fibre shortage and then the market collapse. Based on this year's first half, projected 2008 shipments will fall between 150 and 160 million fibre-km. Experience from recent years shows peak quarterly shipments near 105 percent of the average. This year, we have had reports that some major suppliers have no fibre in inventory, which means a strong second half could strain capacity.