UPDATE: The European Commission is escalating its efforts to eliminate Huawei and ZTE from 5G networks across member states, with new proposals just announced by Vice President Henna Virkkunen. This urgent move aims to make the 2020 5G cybersecurity toolbox recommendations legally binding and could extend to include fixed-line broadband and fiber networks.
This development comes despite previous efforts by several countries to remove these Chinese telecom giants. While Sweden banned Huawei and ZTE from its 5G networks in 2020, the UK has implemented similar restrictions, mandating the removal of existing equipment by 2027. Germany is also set to remove Huawei from its core 5G networks by 2026.
Concerns over cybersecurity and potential espionage are driving these actions. The UK has framed the removal of Huawei’s technology as a necessary measure to secure its supply chain, especially in light of ongoing sanctions from the United States.
“We must have confidence in the security of our phone and internet networks which underpin so much about our economy and everyday lives,”
said former Digital Secretary Michelle Donelan.
As the EU pushes for stronger regulations, Italy is also reviewing its contracts with Chinese companies, while Spain and Italy continue to allow Huawei to operate within their networks. In a striking move, Slovenia recently rejected a bill aimed at excluding high-risk vendors, highlighting a divide in national approaches to security.
The urgency of this situation is underscored by the struggles faced by traditional Western rivals like Nokia and Ericsson, which are finding it increasingly difficult to compete with the pricing of Huawei and ZTE, largely due to state backing these companies receive. This dynamic raises serious questions about the risks associated with geopolitical tensions and technological competition.
The EU’s 5G Cybersecurity Toolbox was originally established to strengthen network security through strategic measures, including restrictions and supplier diversification. However, the reopening of discussions on this topic indicates a need for unified action among EU member states, as current approaches remain fragmented.
With Huawei aiming to reestablish its presence in Europe, particularly through partnerships with small businesses, the implications of this ongoing debate are significant. China’s telecom giant predicts that 100 million smartphones will be 5G-A compatible by the end of 2025, marking a critical period for the industry.
As the EU moves forward with these proposals, all eyes will be on upcoming meetings and legislation that could dramatically reshape the telecommunications landscape in Europe. Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing story.
