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| Sweden bans Huawei and ZTE from joining future 5G networks |
For security reasons, Sweden today (Tuesday) banned the use of Huawei and ZTE telecom devices in the 5G network.
Previously, a frequency auction planned to take place next month was held with Sweden and other European countries in order to limit the role of Chinese service providers.
The Swedish Post and Telecommunications Administration (PTS) said the approval conditions were set after an assessment by the Swedish Armed Forces and Security Agency, of which China poses its biggest threat, Sweden.
After Washington exerted diplomatic pressure, European governments tightened their control over the creation of 5G networks by Chinese companies. Plaintiffs claim that Beijing could use Huawei devices for spying.
In July, the UK ordered Huawei devices to be completely removed from the UK 5G network by 2027. This made Great Britain one of the first European countries to do so.
Unlike Nokia, Ericsson has signed contracts with three major Chinese carriers to provide wireless devices for 5G networks. If the Chinese government decides to take revenge, it may take the risk.
Ericsson and Nokia are expected to benefit from the Swedish ban. US Deputy Commerce Secretary Keith Crash said earlier that European governments should choose Scandinavian companies.
The Swedish Post and Telecommunications Administration (PTS) said that companies participating in the auction should remove Huawei and ZTE devices from their existing central locations by January 1, 2025.
The agency defines the primary function as equipment for establishing wireless access and transmission networks, core networks, as well as network services and maintenance.
The interim secretariat said: The licensing conditions aim to regulate the evaluation of the armed forces and security agencies.
Industry consultant John Strand said: “Several operators have demonstrated that replacing Chinese equipment does not negatively affect capital expenditures.
The 5G auction was supposed to start at the beginning of 2020. The Swedish Post and Telecommunications Authority (PTS) announced last year that the auction was postponed due to security checks and announced in April of this year that the auction would start in November.