Germany could ban the use of specific Huawei and ZTE devices in telecommunication networks due to security concerns.
The ban could force network operators to remove existing equipment and replace it without compensation.
- The German government stated that it is currently conducting a general security overview that is not tied to any specific manufacturer.
- According to Reuters, however, a leaked document shows that the German government is increasingly worried about the country's 5G network being dependent on China-made equipment.
- Responding to the reports, China's foreign ministry stated that it hoped Germany would "make an independent decision in line with its own interests, economic patterns, and international rules that does not receive interference from a third party."
- Recent reports have shown that Germany has become even more dependent on Huawei for its 5G radio access network equipment than its 4G network.
- Sweden banned Chinese companies from participating in its 5G network infrastructure build-out in 2020. The country's regulator authority has given companies until 2025 to remove all China-made parts from their infrastructure.
- Britain has also decided that telecom companies should remove all equipment and services from Huawei by the end of 2027.
