Germany Bans Chinese Tech in Core 5G Network Components

Germany plans to exclude components made by Chinese firms Huawei and ZTE from critical parts of its 5G networks, a move set to be implemented in two phases starting in 2026, according to the country’s top security official on Thursday.

As Europe’s largest economy, Germany has been deliberating on the use of Chinese-made components in its advanced cellphone networks for some time.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser announced that by the end of 2026, Huawei and ZTE components will be banned from Germany’s 5G core networks. Additionally, any “critical management systems” from these manufacturers in the 5G access and transport networks must be replaced by the end of 2029.

This decision came after discussions with Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, and Telefonica, which manage Germany’s 5G networks. Agreements with these three companies are expected to be finalized soon, according to the Interior Ministry.

Last year, Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s administration formulated a strategy addressing relations with China, characterizing it as a “systemic rivalry” and emphasizing the need to mitigate economic dependencies. Nonetheless, the strategy also expressed Berlin’s intent to collaborate with Beijing on global issues like climate change and to sustain trade relations. This approach received criticism from Beijing.

Chancellor Scholz visited China in April, marking his second trip to the country since assuming office at the end of 2021.