The European Commission is preparing new cybersecurity rules that will oblige EU countries to exclude Chinese technology from crucial parts of their digital infrastructure. For several years, a voluntary scheme has been in place, but many EU countries have not complied. Therefore, Brussels is now working on a mandatory import ban.
Mobile telecom networks, including 5G, are central to the plans. The aim is to prevent certain Chinese suppliers such as Huawei from accessing core components of these networks.
The European Commission is dissatisfied with how some EU countries apply previous guidelines. Since 2020, there have been European recommendations, but according to Brussels, these have been implemented inconsistently and inadequately.
The new legislation intends to end this discretion. Instead of national considerations, European law will determine that certain suppliers must be excluded from critical networks.
The scope of the plans goes beyond telecom alone. Other sectors considered sensitive, such as energy and transport, may also fall under the new rules.
For telecom operators, a transition period is foreseen. After the law comes into effect, they will have time to gradually remove existing equipment from their networks.
China has reacted strongly to the European plans. Chinese representatives warn that a ban based on origin could harm investments and put economic cooperation under pressure.
The proposal still needs to be discussed by the European Parliament and EU ministers.