The planned package of cybersecurity measures may make these restrictions mandatory for all European Union countries. Officials familiar with this initiative claim that it will become part of a strategy to strengthen technological independence and protect against potential threats.
Some major telecommunications operators, such as those from Germany and Spain, have previously protested against such initiatives. They pointed out the high cost of replacing Chinese equipment and the lack of alternative suppliers.
The official draft is expected to be presented next Tuesday. The timeframe for phasing out Chinese technologies will depend on the level of threat in each specific sector, as well as the availability of other suppliers. Additionally, the economic consequences for market participants when transitioning to new equipment will also be taken into account.
In the meantime, Huawei continues to rethink its presence in the European market. In December, the company began analyzing the possibilities of its new factory in eastern France, considering the growing pressure from governments and the slowdown in 5G deployment in Europe.
Since 2022, the United States has banned the approval of new telecommunications devices from Huawei and ZTE, actively urging its allies to do the same, citing national security threats. The positions of the European Commission, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, and the companies Huawei and ZTE regarding the new initiative have not yet been announced.
