Report Highlights
The global free–space optical communications market was valued at $41.9 million in 2013 and $59.2 million in 2014. This market is expected to reach $501.1 million in 2019, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 53.3% from 2014 through 2019.
Report Includes
- An overview of the global market for free-space optical communications technology, defined as technology that uses light in free space (air, outer space, or vacuum) as a medium to transfer data wirelessly for computer networking or telecommunications.
- Analyses of global market trends, with data from 2013 and 2014, and projections of CAGRs through 2019.
- Analyses and breakdowns of the market by application, by type, by components, by end use, and by geography.
- Information on current and future trends in the industry as well as information on various competitive technologies.
SCOPE OF REPORT
The free–space optical communications market is segmented into categories as follows:
- By type: short range, medium range and long range.
- By application: data transmission, security, last mile access, storage area network, disaster recovery, healthcare facilities and others.
- By end use: defense and civil.
- By component: transmitter, receiver, modulator, demodulator, decoders/encoders and others.
- By region: North America is segmented into U.S., Canada, and Mexico; Europe is segmented into France, Italy, Germany, U.K., Russia, and rest of Commonwealth Independent States (CIS); Asia–Pacific (APAC) is segmented into China, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, and others; and ROW covers Middle East, Africa, and South America.
In addition to industry and competitive analysis of the free–space optical communications market, this report also includes a patent analysis and a listing of company profiles for key players in the free–space optical communications market.
Analyst Credentials
Sinha G. Gaurav, research analyst, holds an MBA in finance from ICFAI Business School, Hyderabad (India), and a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from Rajasthan University (India). He has worked in almost all domains across the market research industry. He has 11 years of experience in the fields of market research and investment banking. His primary focus is in healthcare, chemicals, electronics, finance and database designing. His publications include subjects such as quantum dots, IT in healthcare, alternative data, ultrafast lasers, inorganic polymers, waste management, factory automation and Voxel, among others.
Related Reports
Optical Network Components: Global Markets
The global market for optical network semiconductors reached roughly $6.0 billion in 2013 and increased to about $6.4 billion in 2014. The market is expected to reach about $7.6 billion by 2019, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.2% from 2014 to 2019.
Global Markets for Laser Systems, Components and Materials
This report is an attempt to list, elaborate, highlight, and analyze the multitudes of demand and supply side dynamics of lasers at large. Includes forecasts through 2016.
Fiber Optic Connectors: Global Markets
The total global value for the fiber optic connector (FOC) market in 2010 is an estimated $1.9 billion. In 2011, global value is projected to increase to more than $1.9 billion, as the global economy begins to improve. By 2016, given a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.6%, total global value for the FOC market is projected to be nearly $3.1 billion.
Track the Latest Global Tariff Developments
In today's fast-paced global economy, tariffs are no longer static—they are dynamic levers shaped by geopolitical realignments, supply chain vulnerabilities, inflationary pressures, and sustainability-driven trade reforms. As governments worldwide recalibrate their trade strategies, businesses are left to navigate a maze of shifting rules, rising costs, and regulatory uncertainty.
Our analysis empowers you with real-time updates and in-depth expert analysis on all facets of global tariff activity. From new trade agreements and sanctions to abrupt tariff hikes and retaliatory duties, we monitor developments across borders, sectors, and industries—so you don't have to.
Whether it's the ongoing U.S.–China trade dynamics, the evolving EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), or the emerging policies in India, ASEAN, and Latin America, we provide full-spectrum coverage. We also track multilateral trade negotiations, World Trade Organization (WTO) rulings, and sector-specific duty structures—ensuring you are always ahead of global trade shifts.
With our analysis, you can stay informed, identify risks, and confidently respond to tariff changes—no matter where you operate.
Ready to see what tariff means for your business?
Consult with our experts or request your custom Tariff Impact Brife today
Stay Informed, Stay Competitive
In today's interconnected and unpredictable global economy, staying ahead of tariff shifts is not just important—it's essential. BCC Research provides decision-makers with trusted, research-driven insights that turn uncertainty into opportunity.
Our in-depth market analysis and trade intelligence help you decode how tariff changes impact your specific sector—manufacturing, healthcare, technology, agriculture, or energy. We break down complex data into actionable knowledge through comprehensive reports, expert commentaries, and sector-focused forecasts.
Our analysis includes:
- Thorough breakdowns of current and proposed tariff policies and how they affect regional and global trade flows.
- Sector-specific implications, helping you understand the strategic impact on sourcing, pricing, and competitiveness.
- Forward-looking insights to support risk management, planning, and response strategies for evolving trade conditions.
With BCC Research, you gain more than just information—you gain clarity and confidence to make well-informed decisions in a volatile trade environment.
Don't let tariffs catch you off guard—let our insights guide your strategy.
Recent Reports
Biophotonics: Technologies and Global Markets
The global market for biophotonics was valued at $62.6 billion in 2024. It’s expected to grow from $68.4 billion in 2025 to reach $113.1 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.6% from 2025 to 2030.
Global Markets for Laser Systems, Components and Materials
The global market for laser systems, components and materials is expected to grow from $21.0 billion in 2024 to reach $30.4 billion by the end of 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.7% from 2024 through 2029.
Photonic Integrated Circuits: Global Markets with Special Focus on Silicon Photonics
The global market for photonic integrated circuits (PICs) is expected to grow from $13.9 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $24.2 billion by 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.8% from 2024 through 2029.
Fiber Optic Sensors: Global Markets
The global market for fiber optic sensors was valued at $3.2 billion in 2023. The market is anticipated to grow from $3.5 billion in 2024 to $5.5 billion by 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.5% from 2024 to 2029.
Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR): Technologies and Global Markets
The global market for light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology should grow from $3.2 billion in 2023 to $7.0 billion by the end of 2028, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.5% during the forecast period of 2023-2028.
Become A Member
BCC Research offers a comprehensive library of reports, granting members unlimited access to data, insights, and market intelligence for informed business decisions, while actively supporting members in their evolving journeys and prioritizing high-quality, relevant topics based on continuous engagement with the research community.
Find Out MoreCustom Consulting
BCC Research emphasizes the importance of organizations leveraging highly customized market insights aligned with specific strategic business objectives through direct engagement with primary sources and proprietary forecasting models for profitable decision-making in maximizing growth opportunities and minimizing risks.
Customize NowScorecard
The Venture Scorecard provides commercialization offices and decision makers with expert analysis, offering strategic insights crucial for aligning objectives with market realities at various stages of commercializing new products or evaluating investment opportunities, from opportunity assessment to growth planning.
Find Out MoreInnovation Spotlight
Our industry experts offer strategic guidance to maximize the market potential of commercialized products, patents, and IP by providing insights into market trends, competitive dynamics, and effective positioning, using the Innovation Spotlight service for enhanced exposure to thought leaders and the wider community.
Find Out More