The European Commission is reportedly preparing to mandate a ban on mobile networking equipment supplied by Huawei and ZTE throughout the European Union. This initiative follows statements from Vice President Henna Virkkunen, advocating for all member states to fully implement the Commission’s 2020 5G security toolbox and cease the utilization of “high-risk vendors” within mobile networks.
“The security of our 5G networks is of paramount importance to our economic stability. The Commission strongly encourages member states that have not yet adopted the 5G Toolbox to implement appropriate measures to address the identified risks promptly and effectively. The absence of decisive action subjects the entire EU to a tangible security risk.” – Thomas Regnier, EU Commission Spokesperson
Currently, each EU member state retains autonomy in determining its telecom infrastructure policies. However, a forthcoming directive from the Commission could potentially enforce a comprehensive, bloc-wide prohibition on 5G networking equipment from vendors such as Huawei and ZTE.
Several member states, including Germany, Finland, and Sweden, have already adhered to restrictions concerning Chinese network equipment. Conversely, other EU members, such as Spain and Greece, continue to permit the integration of Huawei and ZTE network equipment within their local networks.
Source (paywall)
