Germany to Phase Out Huawei, ZTE Components from 5G Network by 2029

Germany plans to remove Huawei and ZTE components from its 5G network by 2029, citing cybersecurity concerns. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser emphasized the need to reduce security risks. The move mirrors bans by the US, UK, and others, potentially straining Germany-China relations further.

Germany has announced plans to phase out components made by Chinese firms Huawei and ZTE from its 5G wireless network within the next five years, CNN reported. According to Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, this move aims to protect Germany's vital communications infrastructure, safeguarding business, state, and citizen interactions from potential cybersecurity threats.

Faeser stressed the urgency of reducing security risks and avoiding dependencies, highlighting the importance of maintaining a secure and resilient telecommunications system. The German government emphasized the threats of sabotage and espionage, stating the need to rely on trustworthy manufacturers. Leading mobile network operators such as Vodafone, Deutsche Telekom, and Telefonica have committed to removing Huawei and ZTE components from their 5G core networks by the end of 2026.

Furthermore, these components must be eliminated from access and transport networks, including transmission lines and towers, by the end of 2029. In response, Huawei claimed no evidence of cybersecurity risks in its technology and expressed a commitment to cooperation and the advancement of cybersecurity. The Chinese Embassy in Germany criticized the decision, warning it could harm bilateral trust and future cooperation.

Tensions between Germany and China may escalate as a result of this move, following Germany's recent decision to block a Volkswagen subsidiary sale to a Chinese state-owned firm on national security grounds. The EU's increased tariffs on Chinese electric cars and wider geopolitical issues continue to strain ties. Germany's decision aligns with actions taken by the US, UK, Australia, and Japan, which have all banned Chinese tech firms from their 5G networks over similar espionage concerns.

The US had also included Huawei on its trade restriction list in 2019, impeding the company's access to American semiconductor chips, with those restrictions being tightened earlier this year. (ANI)