Portugal Takes Steps Towards Excluding Chinese 5G Tech Suppliers

Portugal's cybersecurity council is set to issue regulations potentially barring telecom operators from utilizing Chinese equipment for their 5G mobile and 4G platforms. This move could have major implications for Chinese tech heavyweight Huawei and its ambitions in the Portuguese market.
5G
5G

Portugal’s Council for Cybersecurity (CSSC) is poised to release a resolution that might effectively exclude telecommunications operators from using Chinese tech in their advanced 5G mobile networks as well as the foundational 4G platforms.


The CSSC, a consultative body to the Prime Minister, drafted a document on May 23, which adds another hurdle to Huawei’s bid to penetrate the 5G market in Portugal and potentially renew existing contracts. According to a law passed in August of the previous year, the government reserves the right to command “the exclusion, limitations on usage, or discontinuation of use of equipment or services” provided by telecom companies. This legislation also establishes the conditions and deadlines for compliance.

There was no immediate commentary from the government.

Portugal’s leading operators, Altice, NOS, and Vodafone, have already indicated that they won’t employ Huawei’s gear in their 5G core networks. This is in line with Europe and the U.S.’ apprehensions that involving Chinese technology in vital infrastructure may jeopardize security, an assertion that Beijing and Huawei have rejected. Portugal’s present 5G networks are non-standalone and largely reliant on 4G equipment and technology.

The CSSC, without explicitly mentioning China or any Chinese providers, pointed out a “high risk” to security posed by suppliers or providers under the control, interference, or pressure of governments that meddle in their activities in third-party nations.

This stance is based on a confidential report that examined the security of equipment employed in public electronic communications networks involving 5G technology.

The council also highlighted security threats associated with countries that don’t have agreements on data protection, cybersecurity, or intellectual property protection with Portugal or the European Union, or aren’t members of the EU, NATO, or OECD.

In a statement, Huawei mentioned that it had “no prior awareness of, and wasn’t consulted about this issue.” It is currently collecting information about “the nature of the assessment” and expressed its hope to continue serving clients in Portugal. Europe is turning into a tech battlefield amid the rivalry between Beijing and Washington, and if Huawei is excluded, European rivals Ericsson and Nokia could establish a supplier duopoly.


Recent Content

The City of Brownsville is transforming into a smart city with NTT DATA’s Private 5G technology. This initiative aims to enhance public safety, improve citizen services, and drive sustainability using real-time data, IoT, and AI. By leveraging cutting-edge solutions, Brownsville tackles urban challenges while fostering long-term economic growth and connectivity.
Nokia and Rockwell Automation have partnered to enable private 5G standalone networks, driving industrial transformation through enhanced connectivity, real-time data, and automation. By leveraging CBRS spectrum, industries can now access secure, high-speed 5G solutions that improve operational efficiency and support cutting-edge technologies like AI, IIoT, and AR.
Citymesh has introduced a 5G-powered Safety Drone Shield in Belgium to enhance emergency response efforts for services like firefighters and police. The system uses drones equipped with thermal and HD cameras to provide real-time footage within 90 seconds of a call. Operating on a private 5G network, these drones help emergency teams assess situations quickly and make more informed decisions. Currently featuring 16 Drones-in-a-Box, with plans to expand to 70 by the end of 2024, the system aims to improve situational awareness, speed up response times, and boost the overall efficiency of emergency services.
Vodafone has launched the first 5G Mobile Private Network (MPN) at a nuclear power plant in Europe, deploying it at the Temelín Nuclear Power Plant in Czechia for ČEZ Group. This dedicated network enhances security, communication, and operational efficiency by providing ultra-fast, reliable, and independent communication within the facility. The network’s low-latency capabilities support advanced technologies like augmented reality (AR) for maintenance, making it a key tool in the digital transformation of critical infrastructure. The pilot project sets a precedent for 5G MPN adoption in highly regulated industries like energy.
NTT Com Asia is transforming Hong Kong’s smart city landscape with its Private 5G network at the docomo 5G DX Square innovation lab. This groundbreaking platform supports cutting-edge applications in AI, V2X, and edge computing, offering high-speed, low-latency, and secure connectivity for industries like healthcare, transportation, and construction. As the first provider to secure Hong Kong’s Private 5G license, NTT is driving technological innovation across the region.
MWC Las Vegas 2024, running from October 8-10, is North America’s top event for the enterprise 5G ecosystem. With keynotes from major players like Intel, Nvidia, Qualcomm, and T-Mobile for Business, this event brings together leaders from 5G carriers, hardware manufacturers, and technology vendors. Attendees will explore cutting-edge 5G use cases across sectors like aviation, automotive, manufacturing, and government, where AI, edge computing, and connected networks are revolutionizing industries.

Currently, no free downloads are available for related categories. Search similar content to download:

  • Reset

It seems we can't find what you're looking for.

Download Magazine

With Subscription

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Scroll to Top