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

India’s telecom giants, Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea, have raised tariffs for the first time in three years to recover significant 5G investment costs. Jio’s and Airtel’s hikes range from 10% to 27%, while Vodafone Idea’s increases span 10% to 23%. This move aims to enhance ARPU and sector profitability, signaling a potential re-rating of the telecom sector.
Telia’s private 5G and drones extend network coverage to remote areas, revolutionizing industries like forestry. In Sweden, drones with mobile base stations enabled remote control of forestry machines, overcoming connectivity challenges in remote forests. Key partners, including Mittuniversitetet, Telia, Ericsson, and Volvo CE, contributed to this innovative project, showcasing the potential of 5G and drone technology to enhance connectivity, safety, and operational efficiency in forestry and beyond.
Orange equips 15,000 athletes with 5G Private SA for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, ensuring high-speed, low-latency connectivity at major venues. This initiative promises seamless communication and exceptional connectivity for athletes, tourists, and broadcasters, enhancing the overall experience for all attendees.
T-Mobile’s 5G Advanced Network Solutions will enhance the SailGP New York race on June 22–23, providing fans with real-time insights and dynamic views. This partnership leverages 5G technology to ensure seamless data transmission, boosting the spectator experience both in-person and at home.
T-Mobile enhances the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship with 5G solutions. From real-time player data with KPMG CHAMPCAST to enhanced broadcast views and VIP experiences, T-Mobile’s innovations are set to transform the event at Sahalee Country Club. Discover how T-Mobile’s 5G network is driving operational efficiencies and supporting women’s golf, featuring top athletes like Nelly Korda and Brooke Henderson.
Discover how generative AI is transforming the telecom industry through strategic partnerships between telcos and tech vendors. These collaborations embed AI at the core of operations, enhancing connectivity, operational efficiencies, and customer experiences. Stay informed about the latest developments and the impact of AI and Gen-driven innovations in telecommunications.

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