Microduct market - Forecasts from 2023 to 2028

The global microduct market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.56% during the forecast period.

The global microduct market refers to the small, flexible conduits that protect and manage fiber optic cables in various applications such as telecommunications, data centers, and security systems. Microducts are typically made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and come in various sizes, ranging from 3mm to 32mm in diameter, with multiple pathways for cables. Microducts are popular due to their lightweight and flexible design, making installing and maintaining fiber optic networks more efficient and cost-effective. The market is driven by the growing demand for high-speed internet connectivity, increasing investments in communication infrastructure, and the need for efficient and reliable communication networks. The global microduct market is expected to continue its growth trajectory in the coming years, driven by technological advancements, the increasing demand for high-speed internet connectivity, and the expanding application of fiber optic networks in various industries.

The global microduct market is driven by increasing demand for high-speed internet connectivity and expanding usage of fiber optic networks.

The increasing demand for high-speed internet connectivity is driving the market growth of the global microduct market because microducts are used in the deployment of high-speed broadband networks, which are essential to meet the growing demand for internet connectivity. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States, in 2021 there were more than 14.5 million fiber internet connections in the country, a 16% increase from the previous year. Microducts are an essential component of these broadband networks because they protect and manage the cables that transmit data over these networks. The lightweight, flexible, and easy-to-install design of microducts makes them ideal for use in various environments, including urban and rural areas. Further, the application of fiber optic networks is expanding beyond traditional telecommunications to include security systems, healthcare, and transportation. This expansion is driving the demand for microducts in new industries and applications.

Market Developments:

• In January 2023, Prysmian, a leading cable manufacturer, launched a new product, the Sirocco H.D. microduct cable, with a capacity of 864 fibers that can be squeezed into an 11mm diameter, resulting in a fiber density of 9.1 fibers per square millimeter. This product can be installed into a 13mm duct and features Prysmian's BendBright-A2 200-µm single-mode bend-insensitive fiber. The cable is specifically designed for deployment in microducts, making it suitable for use in advanced solutions like high-density access, FTTx, and 5G networks.
• In November 2022, Hexatronic Group AB announced its acquisition of KNET CO., a major player in the telecoms sector for developing and producing microduct solutions, for an estimated enterprise value of $63m. KNET has a global footprint, delivering its solutions to over 70 countries across five continents. The fixed purchase price of $48m was financed in cash by Hexatronic at closing.
• In December 2021, Emtelle Group, a multinational manufacturer of pre-connectorized blown fiber, cabling, and ducted solutions, acquired Afripipes Middle East Operations, a Dubai-based provider of microduct solutions. This strategic move was aimed at expanding Emtelle's global presence and reinforcing its ability to secure the supply chain of passive network solutions for worldwide network operators. The acquisition added 15 manufacturing lines to Emtelle's capacity.

The flame retardant segment is expected to witness robust growth during the forecast period.

The flame retardant type of microducts is expected to gain significant market growth in the coming years due to increasing concerns for safety and security. Flame retardant microducts are engineered to have a higher resistance to flames. They are commonly used in applications where the risk of fire is high, such as industrial and commercial buildings, data centers, and transportation infrastructures. The flame retardant microducts market growth is also driven by the growing demand for high-speed data transmission and the need for reliable and secure communication networks. With the increasing adoption of 5G technology and the Internet of Things (IoT), there is a need for more robust and reliable networks that can handle the ever-increasing data traffic. Flame retardant microducts offer superior protection to cables and fibers, ensuring they are not damaged in a fire.

Europe accounted for a significant share of the global microduct market.

Based on geography, the global microduct market is segmented into North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and Asia Pacific. Europe is a significant region in the global microduct market. The region has a high adoption rate of advanced communication technologies, such as FTTx, 5G, and IoT, which are driving the demand for microducts in the region. Additionally, increasing government initiatives and investments in smart city projects, digital transformation, and broadband infrastructure development are fueling market growth. Some key players operating in the European microduct market include Hexatronic Group AB, Emtelle UK Limited, Prysmian Group, Nexans S.A., and Dura-Line Corporation. These players are focusing on product innovation, strategic partnerships, and acquisitions to strengthen their market position and expand their product portfolios.

Market Segmentation:

BY TYPE

• Direct Install
• Direct Burial
• Flame Retardant

BY APPLICATION

• FTTX Networks
• Other Access Networks
• Backbone Network
• Others

BY GEOGRAPHY

• North America
• USA
• Canada
• Mexico
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Others
• Europe
• Germany
• France
• United Kingdom
• Spain
• Others
• Middle East And Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Israel
• Others
• Asia Pacific
• China
• Japan
• India
• South Korea
• Taiwan
• Others