China has issued a strong warning that it could take countermeasures against the European Union if it bans the use of equipment from companies such as Huawei and ZTE in telecommunications networks. This reaction comes at a time when the EU is considering classifying Chinese suppliers as a security risk, which represents a significant escalation in technological relations between the two sides.
According to the latest reports, the Chinese mission to the EU has made it clear that if the proposal is implemented, Beijing will respond with appropriate measures that may include an investigation against European companies. This opens up the possibility of a wider trade and technological conflict, with potential consequences for the global market.
EU tightens regulations and restricts Chinese suppliers
The initiative to remove the Chinese equipment is led by Henna Virkkunen from the European Commission, who advocates the introduction of mandatory measures within the cyber security law. The goal is to strengthen the protection of networks by eliminating suppliers that are considered risky.
China specifically objects to the wording labeling Chinese companies as “high-risk suppliers” and demands their removal from the proposal. At the same time, several European countries and the UK have already taken concrete steps to restrict Huawei equipment in key parts of the networks, citing security reasons and potential links with state structures.
Even earlier, through the 5G Toolbox, the EU recommended that member states reduce their reliance on risky suppliers. However, critics warn that such a policy narrows choice and increases costs for operators, who then rely on equipment from Nokia and Ericsson.
The further development of the situation will depend on the final decision of the EU, but also on China’s readiness to implement the announced countermeasures. This dispute has the potential to grow into a wider conflict over technological dominance, where security arguments intertwine with economic interests and strategic positioning in the global market, reports Asia Business Daily.