EU considers imposing obligatory ban on Huawei in 5G infrastructure
In response to mounting security concerns, the European Union is contemplating an obligatory prohibition on the utilization of Huawei in its 5G networks. This deliberation arises from growing apprehensions within Brussels regarding the potential risks associated with the Chinese company.
According to a report from the Financial Times on Tuesday, the European Union is contemplating a compulsory prohibition on member states from utilizing companies that could potentially pose security risks in their 5G networks. This ban would encompass Huawei Technologies Co Ltd, a Chinese company.
EU considers imposing obligatory ban on Huawei in 5G infrastructure
According to officials cited by the newspaper, the decision to consider a mandatory ban by the European Union stems from growing apprehensions in Brussels regarding specific national governments' reluctance to take prompt action on the issue. Both the EU and Huawei have not yet responded to requests for comment from Reuters.
EU considers measures to address 5G network risks
In 2020, the European Union allowed its member states to impose restrictions or exclusions on Huawei in certain parts of their telecoms networks, but refrained from an outright ban despite pressure from the United States. However, concerns have arisen as only a third of EU countries have implemented Huawei bans in critical areas, as revealed by EU's internal market commissioner Thierry Breton to telecoms ministers.
To address this disparity and compensate for the previous guidance falling short, the EU is now contemplating a mandatory ban on companies deemed to pose security risks. Germany, in particular, has been considering banning specific components from Chinese companies Huawei and ZTE in its telecoms network, according to a government source.
The EU's potential move carries significant implications for the ongoing competition between the United States and China for dominance in the global 5G market. The United States has persistently argued that Huawei presents security risks due to its close ties with the Chinese government, urging its allies to ban the company from their 5G networks. China, on the other hand, has denied these allegations, accusing the United States of impeding its economic progress.
The EU's consideration of a mandatory ban demonstrates its serious approach to addressing the security concerns associated with Huawei. However, it remains uncertain whether a consensus will be reached within the EU or if member states will continue adopting divergent approaches.
The EU's decision regarding Huawei will be closely monitored by other nations worldwide. The United States, Australia, and Japan have already banned Huawei from their 5G networks, and other countries are contemplating similar actions. The EU's stance could establish a precedent for others and have a profound impact on the global 5G market.
