EU to phase out Huawei, ZTE telecom equipment with new law limiting Chinese tech

As of now, Huawei is not banned in EU, but many countries are considering restrictions for tech giant
An undated image. — Unsplash

An undated image. — Unsplash

The European Commission (EC) is reportedly preparing to phase out telecom equipment from Chinese firms Huawei and ZTE by proposing a law as part of its measures to enhance cybersecurity across the EU.

This clampdown on Huawei-owned telecom equipment follows earlier recommendations urging member states to stop using technology from "high-risk" vendors, including Huawei, due to potential cybersecurity risks associated with 5G networks.

As of now, Huawei is not banned in the EU, but many countries are considering restrictions for the tech giant.

The EC's vice president, Henna Virkkunen, is said to be planning to make these recommendations legally binding, which could lead to penalties for non-compliance.

The proposal will particularly target the involvement of Huawei in fibre network projects as the EU seeks to accelerate its broadband rollout.

Are Huawei phones banned in EU?

Huawei phones are not banned in the EU. However, their use is under scrutiny, and some countries have already implemented restrictions on Huawei's technology in critical telecom infrastructure. This is in line with bigger plans by the EU to limit Chinese influence amid growing tensions between the EU and China.

Huawei users should bear in mind that while Huawei is not banned in the EU, its role in telecommunications, especially concerning 5G cybersecurity risks, is being thoroughly evaluated, and its equipment's phase-out is being actively pursued.