Government tightens requirements for wireless network components
Starting after prolonged negotiations, an agreement has been reached. To secure the wireless networks from Chinese influences, components of certain companies will not be allowed to be used starting from 2029. The so-called core network is the first to be affected, with this rule taking effect as early as 2026.
The German government will not allow components from Chinese manufacturers in the modern 5G mobile network starting from 2029. According to government sources, after the core network is no longer allowed to contain components from security-critical manufacturers starting from 2026, companies like Huawei or ZTE will be affected. The mobile network providers are expected to stop using components of such companies in their transport networks and in antennas by 2029.
A spokesperson from the Federal Interior Ministry stated that the testing of critical components in 5G mobile networks "will be completed soon." They are still holding talks with all involved network operators. "The German government acts on the basis of the National Security Strategy and the China Strategy to reduce potential risks and dependencies," the spokesperson emphasized. No further details were provided.
However, according to several sources within the government, at least the basic understanding has been reached. Penalties for violations will be imposed. A written agreement with the companies has not been reached yet. The goal is to build the modern mobile network, which is considered a critical infrastructure, as secure as possible against harmful external influences. Companies like Huawei have always denied allegations of spying or unauthorized data transfer. Western governments, however, see a significant influence of the communist leadership in Beijing on Chinese companies and fear problems if the geopolitical situation should deteriorate.
Telekom referred to a request from Süddeutsche Zeitung, NDR, and WDR and stated that the company does not comment on ongoing talks with authorities. Telefónica stated that the company does not comment on ongoing talks with authorities. Vodafone did not react, nor did the Federal Interior Ministry. The negotiations are being handled by Vodafone.
The three media cited government circles, stating that the Russian attack on Ukraine has changed the risk assessment for critical infrastructure. Under no circumstances should there be dependencies in the digital realm like there once was with Russian gas. In the German government, the 5G network is seen as the "central nervous system" of the economic location, which must be particularly protected.
Within the German government, Digital Minister Volker Wissing, Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, Economic Minister Robert Habeck, and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser agreed that security must be increased by no longer allowing critical components to be built. Controversial was the length of the transition periods for the companies. Wissing argued that one must also consider network stability and costs. After all, the goal of the government is also the rapid rollout of 5G networks. The government also emphasized that no regulation is being planned specifically against Chinese companies. All manufacturers whose products will still be used in the 5G network after 2029 must meet certain security criteria.
The decision to exclude components from Chinese manufacturers in IT security aspects of 5G network development aligns with the German government's national security strategy. Implementing this policy will impact companies like Huawei and ZTE, who might need to comply with new security criteria for their components to be used in German networks starting from 2029. The potential impact of this policy on the economy and Mobile radio technology's evolution in Germany requires close monitoring and careful consideration.
