Germany's Bold Move: Blocking Huawei, ZTE from 5G Networks by 2029 to Boost Security

Germany announced a plan to phase out Huawei and ZTE from its 5G networks by 2029, a significant step towards bolstering digital security and addressing security concerns over Chinese technology.

Germany Sets 2029 Deadline for Phasing Out Huawei

The German interior minister announced on Thursday that the country has reached an agreement with telecom carriers to block 5G network goods from Chinese businesses like ZTE and Huawei beginning in 2029.

"We have now reached a clear and strict agreement with the telecoms companies," minister Nancy Faeser told reporters in Berlin, praising the accord as an essential measure to protect digital security in the biggest economy in Europe.

Yahoo reports that this deal is the result of negotiations between the German interior ministry and three major telecom companies—Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, and Telefonica Deutschland—with the goal of protecting Germany's vital infrastructure from the perceived security threat that China poses.

Retaliation against the anticipated restrictions on Chinese technology is not something Faeser expects, as Berlin has already informed Beijing about the accord.

Beijing Warns of Consequences Over Huawei Phase-Out

However, the Chinese embassy in Berlin warned that excluding or restricting Huawei would have repercussions, describing Berlin's proposal as a "ruthless attempt" to limit competition and boost Chinese technology.

Claims of danger to the safety of the network are only an excuse. In response to a request for comment on rumors about the plans from Wednesday, the embassy stated on Thursday that no government has yet offered conclusive information regarding the security risk posed by Huawei equipment.

Regarding the accord, the minister remained tight-lipped.

Per Reuters' Wednesday report, the planned phase-out will begin in 2026 with operators removing Chinese-made technology from the country's core network of 5G data centers.

Germany's Strategy to Enhance 5G Network Security

The second phase involves the elimination of Chinese manufacturers of components by the year 2029. These components include towers, transmission lines, and antennas.

Germany has been slow to adopt the 5G network security standards set by the European Union.

Telcos have fought Berlin's costly attempts to phase out Huawei, and the tech company has fought back against what it terms the "politicisation" of cybersecurity in Germany.