The German government and major mobile phone carriers have reached an agreement in principle to phase out components made by Chinese technology companies from the nation’s 5G wireless network over the next five years. This information was revealed to Reuters by two sources familiar with the matter on Wednesday.
Earlier, the newspaper Sueddeutsche Zeitung, along with broadcasters NDR and WDR, reported this development. They noted that the agreement allows network operators Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, and Telefonica Deutschland more time to replace critical parts in their networks.
- Core Network Transition: In the first phase, network operators will remove technology made by companies such as Huawei and ZTE from the country’s core 5G data centers by 2026.
- Secondary Phase: By 2029, the role of Chinese-made parts in antennas, transmission lines, and towers will be significantly reduced.
Germany’s interior ministry, when asked for a comment, stated that discussions with mobile carriers are ongoing. A spokesperson mentioned, “The government is acting on the basis of the national security strategy and China strategy to reduce possible security risks and dependencies.” The Chinese embassy in Germany did not respond immediately to a request for comment.
Germany has been slower in implementing the European Union’s security measures for 5G networks compared to other nations. Telecom operators in Germany have previously resisted Berlin’s efforts to phase out Huawei’s technology, citing the high costs involved. Huawei, on its part, has criticized what it describes as the “politicization” of cybersecurity in Germany.
| Phase | Components Affected | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Core network technology (5G data centers) | 2026 |
| Phase 2 | Antennas, transmission lines, towers | 2029 |
The agreement stems from security concerns related to the use of Chinese technology in critical infrastructure. This move aligns with Germany’s broader national security and China strategy, aimed at reducing potential security risks and dependencies on foreign technology. The concerns are not unique to Germany, as similar issues have been raised by other countries, including the United States.
- National Security Concerns: The German government’s decision is driven by a desire to mitigate potential security risks associated with using Chinese technology in critical infrastructure.
- Economic Impact: The phase-out process is expected to be costly for telecom operators, who will need to invest in replacing existing equipment.
- Regulatory Pressure: Germany faces pressure to comply with European Union security measures for 5G networks, which aim to ensure the safety and integrity of telecommunications infrastructure.
The situation in Germany is part of a broader trend of countries reassessing their reliance on Chinese technology in telecommunications networks. In May, the U.S. communications regulator reported that nearly 40% of American telecom companies require additional government funding to remove Chinese-made equipment from their wireless networks to address security concerns.
Telecom operators in Germany have expressed resistance to the government’s phase-out plans due to the significant costs involved. Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, and Telefonica Deutschland will need to replace critical network components, a process that requires substantial investment and time.
- Cost Concerns: Replacing existing equipment with new, non-Chinese components is a costly endeavor for telecom operators.
- Operational Challenges: The transition to new technology must be carefully managed to avoid disruptions in network service.
Despite these challenges, the German government is committed to moving forward with the phase-out plan, prioritizing national security and aligning with broader European security measures.
While the agreement is still in its preliminary stages, with a final pact yet to be signed, it marks a significant step towards enhancing the security of Germany’s 5G network. The phased approach allows telecom operators time to manage the transition, balancing the need for security with the practicalities of network management.
As discussions continue, the focus will be on ensuring a smooth transition and addressing the concerns of all stakeholders involved. The ongoing dialogue between the government and telecom operators will be crucial in achieving a consensus on the final implementation plan.
Germany’s move to phase out Chinese components from its 5G network highlights the country’s commitment to national security and adherence to European Union guidelines. The agreement, once finalized, will set a precedent for other countries grappling with similar security concerns in their telecommunications infrastructure.
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