Germany to ban Chinese companies’ components from 5G networks by 2026

Germany has decided to ban critical components from Chinese companies ZTE and Huawei, in the core parts of its 5G networks starting from 2026. This move marks a significant step in the country’s national security strategy.

Germany, Europe’s largest economy, will likely join other European nations. The barring will affect critical components made by Chinese companies Huawei and ZTE, in the core parts of its 5G networks. This decision will have two phases, starting in 2026, as announced by the country’s top security official.

Security-driven decision

Germany had long deliberated over the inclusion of components from Chinese suppliers in its next-generation mobile networks. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser stated that they will ban critical components from Huawei and ZTE, from the 5G core networks, by the end of 2026. Additionally, “critical management systems” from these manufacturers in 5G access and transport networks must be replaced by the end of 2029.

This decision followed recent negotiations with Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, and Telefonica, which operate Germany’s 5G networks. Agreements will be signed with all three companies, according to the Interior Ministry.

“We have carefully examined the risks posed by critical components manufactured by Huawei and ZTE in German 5G cellphone networks,” Faeser said, announcing the “clear and strict agreement” with German operators.

“With this, we are protecting the central nervous systems of Germany as a business location and safeguarding the communication of citizens, companies, and the state,” she added.

Importance of secure telecommunications infrastructure

Today’s threats highlight the significance of secure telecommunications infrastructure. Particularly “with a view to dangers from sabotage and espionage,” Faeser emphasized.

In recent years, the United States successfully pushed European allies such as Britain and Sweden to ban or restrict Huawei equipment in their phone networks. They feared that Beijing could use it for cyber snooping or sabotaging critical communications infrastructure. Huawei repeatedly denied those allegations. Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada have taken similar actions.

Last year, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government outlined a strategy for relations with China. He described a “systemic rivalry” with the Asian power, and the need to mitigate economic dependency risks. However, the strategy also emphasized Berlin’s desire to collaborate with Beijing. Both countries share challenges such as climate change and maintain trade ties.

The strategy drew criticism from Beijing. Scholz visited China in April on his second trip to the country since taking office at the end of 2021.