Germany to phase out Huawei and ZTE equipment in 5G networks, citing national security concerns

Germany to Phase Out Huawei and ZTE Equipment in 5G Networks Amid National Security Concerns

Germany has announced plans to phase out equipment from Chinese telecom giants Huawei and ZTE in its 5G networks, citing national security concerns. This move reflects a growing trend in Europe and the US to distance themselves from these Chinese companies.

According to AFP news agency, the German interior ministry stated that “core” 5G networks will no longer use Huawei and ZTE components by the end of 2026. In 5G access and transmission infrastructure, the companies’ systems must be replaced by the end of 2029. Agreements have reportedly been reached with German network operators Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, and Telefonica regarding the ban.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser emphasized the need to protect “critical infrastructure” and communication channels for citizens, businesses, and the government. Germany aims to reduce reliance on a single supplier and mitigate potential cyberattacks that could pose “existential threats.” By reducing dependence on China, Germany seeks to “de-risk” its economy.

This decision by Germany is seen as a significant shift in its approach to Chinese technology and aligns with broader European and US concerns regarding national security. The European Commission has described Huawei and ZTE as a risk to the bloc and called on EU member states to exclude the companies’ equipment from their mobile networks in 2023. The UK and Sweden have already implemented similar bans on Huawei in their 5G networks, while the US has pressured allies to exclude these companies due to spying concerns.

Huawei has maintained that its technology is “secure and reliable,” while the Chinese embassy in Berlin called the decision “groundless.” The ban reflects a broader strain in China-Germany relations, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The impact of the Russia-Ukraine war has led to Berlin seeking to “de-risk” by cutting its reliance on China. Germany’s crucial manufacturers, from auto companies to machine-tool makers, have long had close ties with China, but recent events have prompted a shift in approach. Earlier this month, Berlin blocked the sale of a gas turbine unit belonging to a Volkswagen group subsidiary to a Chinese investor due to concerns over close links to the Chinese armaments industry.

Overall, the move by Germany to phase out Huawei and ZTE equipment in its 5G networks underscores the growing global shift away from Chinese technology vendors due to national security considerations.