Germany made headlines a few weeks ago when it released its ‘security catalog,’ a set of rules for 5G deployment. Despite the German government stating no telecommunications company was excluded, it now appears Huawei may not qualify after all, according to Reuters.
Reuters is reporting that German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas expressed concern over Huawei’s dependence on the Chinese government, obligating it to pass on any sensitive information it may be privy to.
According to the report, “Germany therefore wants to add a test of trustworthiness to the 5G security catalogue that so far had mainly envisaged an evaluation of technical criteria, Maas said.
“In this test of trustworthiness, German authorities will examine if a company is forced by law in its home country to pass on information and data that actually should be protected, Maas said, adding: ‘That’s the case with Huawei.’”
Despite Maas’ stance, nothing is certain. German operators have already warned the government that banning Huawei would add billions in cost and years of effort to a successful 5G rollout. It’s possible Germany may allow Huawei to participate, but limit the company’s access from more sensitive aspects of the technology’s deployment.
Whatever happens, with the U.S. continuing to pressure allies and Britain voicing similar concern, Huawei still faces a long road to convincing world governments that it can be trusted.
