The European Union has unveiled a new strategy to strengthen the security of its digital infrastructure, a move widely interpreted as aimed at reducing reliance on Chinese technology providers. In a policy shift that signals a tougher stance on cybersecurity, EU Proposes Phasing Out High-Risk Telecom Suppliers in Move Seen as Targeting China as part of broader efforts to protect critical networks across the bloc.
Announced on Tuesday, the proposal would gradually remove telecom equipment supplied by companies based in so-called “high-risk” countries from essential systems such as high-speed mobile and broadband networks. Although the draft does not explicitly name any firms or nations, it echoes earlier warnings about vendors from China, particularly Huawei and ZTE.
European officials say the decision reflects growing unease over the region’s exposure to both Chinese high-tech manufacturing and the dominance of U.S. digital service providers. With 27 member states relying on complex and interconnected networks, Brussels believes a unified approach is necessary to safeguard strategic infrastructure.
Under the proposed legislation, equipment from high-risk suppliers operating in non-EU countries would be phased out over a three-year period. Unlike earlier cybersecurity guidelines that were voluntary, the new framework would make compliance mandatory across all member states. This change comes after years of uneven implementation, with some countries continuing to purchase Chinese-made telecom gear while others imposed bans or restrictions.
The European Commission had already indicated in 2023 that limiting Huawei and ZTE was justified due to elevated security risks. However, the absence of binding rules allowed national governments to interpret the guidance differently. The new measures aim to close that gap and create a consistent security standard throughout the bloc.
Huawei has responded cautiously, stating that as a legally operating company in Europe, it will protect its rights and interests. The firm argued that excluding suppliers based solely on country of origin—rather than technical evidence—would breach EU principles of fairness and non-discrimination, as well as World Trade Organization obligations.
Beyond telecommunications, the proposed restrictions would also apply to sensitive technologies in other sectors. These include border security scanners, water management systems, and medical and healthcare devices—areas where system failures or interference could pose serious risks to public safety.
“Our goal is to protect European citizens and businesses by securing the ICT supply chains that underpin critical parts of our economy and society,” said European Commission Vice President Henna Virkkunen while addressing lawmakers in Strasbourg. The European Parliament will now review and debate the proposals before they can become law.
If approved, the plan would mark a significant step in reshaping Europe’s digital landscape, reinforcing security while redefining the bloc’s technological partnerships in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.
