FCC Challenges: Chinese Telecom Giants Face Potential U.S. Ban

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) may prohibit three major Chinese telecom firms from U.S. networks over national security concerns. China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom need to address issues in the FCC's robocall mitigation database. The FCC demands proof these companies pose no security threat.

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced on Monday its consideration to ban three leading Chinese telecom companies from connecting to U.S. networks. This development is part of Washington's broader efforts to address security concerns related to Chinese telecom influences and robocalls.

The FCC has issued warnings to China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom, citing issues with their inclusion in the FCC's robocall mitigation database. The agency's removal of these companies could oblige U.S. providers to reject any direct calls from these Chinese carriers. The FCC emphasized the serious national security implications if these firms fail to present satisfactory evidence proving they are not a security threat.

In recent years, the FCC has progressively restricted Chinese telecom operations in the U.S., blocking China Mobile in 2019 and revoking service authorizations for China Unicom, Pacific Networks, and China Telecom Americas between 2021 and 2022. On October 15, the FCC indicated a move to retract HKT's operational capabilities in the U.S., further underscoring the security concerns tied to Chinese telecom entities.

(With inputs from agencies.)