EU advises against using Huawei and ZTE equipment in telecoms infrastructure

New rules grant broader powers to restrict equipment from “high-risk” suppliers

Trade

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The European Commission has advised its member states not to use equipment from Huawei and ZTE in their telecommunications networks, citing growing cyber security concerns. This recommendation highlights a shift towards prioritising digital security within the EU.

New cyber security rules proposed by the EU are intended to give the Union greater powers to restrict or ban equipment from suppliers designated as “high risk” from its telecommunications systems.

The main objective of this initiative is to protect critical infrastructure. That is particularly important now that Europe is accelerating the rollout of advanced connectivity technologies. Although the recommendation does not impose an immediate ban in all member states, it provides clear guidelines for national governments and telecom operators.

China has strongly objected to the proposal and is threatening countermeasures if it is implemented. Beijing criticises the EU’s approach as discriminatory, further increasing tensions between the two sides on technology and trade policy.

The EU’s recent stance reflects a broader effort to reduce reliance on foreign technology suppliers in critical sectors and to strengthen digital sovereignty. As geopolitical tensions become increasingly intertwined with technological progress, decisions on telecommunications infrastructure are becoming crucial to both economic policy and national security within the European Union.

Business AM

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