Germany to phase out Huawei, ZTE components

In the wake of mounting global concerns over national security, Germany has become the latest nation to join the ranks of countries restricting Chinese technology in critical infrastructure. Following in the footsteps of the US, Britain, Sweden, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, Europe’s largest economy has announced plans to bar components from Chinese tech giants Huawei and ZTE in core parts of its 5G networks.

This decision marks a significant shift for Germany, which had taken a more cautious approach to Chinese involvement in its telecommunications infrastructure. The move comes after years of pressure from the US, which has long warned its allies about the potential risks associated with Chinese-made equipment in critical networks. Washington has consistently argued that Beijing could exploit such technology for cyber espionage or sabotage – allegations that Huawei has vehemently and repeatedly denied.

On Thursday, German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser unveiled the country’s strategy to phase out critical components from both the Chinese tech giants in two stages. By the end of 2026, these components by Huawei and ZRE will be barred from 5G core networks. Subsequently, “critical management systems” from the two manufacturers in 5G access and transport networks must be replaced by the end of 2029.

“We have examined the risks from critical components manufactured by Huawei and ZTE in German 5G cell phone networks very carefully,” Faeser stated. “With this, we are protecting the central nervous systems of Germany as a business location — and we are protecting the communication of citizens, companies and the state.”

The decision follows extensive negotiations with Germany’s major telecom operators – Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, and Telefonica. The Interior Ministry confirmed that agreements with all three companies will be signed to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

This policy shift reflects growing concerns about potential security risks associated with Chinese technology in critical infrastructure. Faeser emphasized the need to address “dangers from sabotage and espionage” in the face of current threats, underscoring the significance of secure telecommunications infrastructure.

The announcement comes amid increasing geopolitical tensions. Just a day earlier, NATO allies, including Germany, labelled China a “decisive enabler” of Russia’s war in Ukraine and expressed concerns over Beijing’s nuclear arsenal and space capabilities. This characterization drew a sharp rebuke from China, which accused NATO of seeking security at the expense of others.

Despite these tensions, Germany has attempted to maintain a balanced relationship with China. Last year, Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government outlined a strategy that acknowledges a “systemic rivalry” with China while emphasizing the need for cooperation on global challenges like climate change and the maintenance of trade ties.

In response to Germany’s decision, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian defended Chinese companies, stating that there is “no evidence that they endanger the national security of European countries.” Lin cautioned against politicizing economic and technological issues, arguing that such actions would undermine regular cooperation and exchanges.

For its part, Huawei maintained its stance on the safety of its technology. In a statement released Thursday, the company asserted, “There is no specific evidence or scenario that Huawei’s technology has cyber security risks.” The tech giant pledged to continue promoting cybersecurity improvements and supporting the development of mobile networks and digitalization in Germany.

As Germany moves forward with this policy, the implications for its 5G rollout and broader technological landscape remain to be seen. The decision represents a delicate balancing act between national security concerns and the need for advanced telecommunications infrastructure. It also signals a significant shift in Germany’s stance towards Chinese technology companies, potentially influencing similar decisions across Europe and beyond.

With this move, Germany reinforces the growing global trend of prioritizing security in technological infrastructure, reflecting the complex interplay of geopolitics, economics, and national security in the digital age. As the 2026 and 2029 deadlines approach, the world will be watching closely to see how this policy unfolds, its impact on Germany’s digital future, and its relationships with China and its Western allies.

(Photo by Mark König )

See also: HarmonyOS NEXT: Huawei’s bold move to challenge Apple and Android

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Tags: 5G, europe, Networks, telecoms