Canada bans Chinese companies Huawei and ZTE from its 5G networks | Companies | Economy

Canada Announced a ban on the installation of networks 5G Of Chinese telecommunications companies Huawei Y ZTE Due to national security concerns.

The long-awaited move follows a similar conclusion United States And other important allies, and in times of tension between Ottawa Y Beijing Following the arrest of Huawei’s Chief Financial Officer in Vancouver 2018, Meng Wancho.

The United States has warned of security implications for the Chinese technology company’s access to key telecommunications infrastructure used for spying.

Both Huawei and Beijing have denied the allegations, and the Chinese government has warned of repercussions for countries imposing restrictions on telecommunications service providers.

Minister of Industry of Canada Francois-Philippe ChampagneAnd public security, Marco MendicinoThey made the announcement at a press conference.

“Today we announce our intention to ban the inclusion of Huawei and ZTE products and services in Canada’s telecommunications systems.”Champagne said.

“Telecommunications companies in Canada should not add to their network products or services that endanger our national security.”He added.

“Suppliers who have already installed this equipment are forced to stop using it and remove it.” He insisted.

Canada has been debating the matter for years, again delaying the first expected outcome in 2019.

The Ottawa government has remained silent on the issue following the imprisonment of two Canadian diplomats by China. Michael Gowrick And entrepreneur Michael SpoverViewers felt the executives were retaliating for the arrest Meng Wangzhou In December 2018, at the request of the United States.

The trio were released in September 2021 after Meng reached a solicitation agreement with US prosecutors on fraud charges, ending their extradition fight.

Hostile actors

Huawei is currently a supplier of 4G equipment to some Canadian telecommunications companies.

Most, if not all, of Ottawa decided to avoid using Huawei services on fifth-generation (5G) wireless networks or look at other providers.

5G networks offer their users faster online connections and greater data capacity.

Mendicino said innovation “It represents a great opportunity for competition and growth”But “It also carries risks”.

United States, Australia, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Japan Y Sweden They have already blocked or restricted the use of Huawei technology in their 5G networks.

“There are many hostile actors who are willing to use vulnerabilities” In telecommunications networks, he added.

The U.S. government views Huawei as a potential security threat due to the visit of its CEO ren zhengfeiA former Chinese military engineer and Meng’s father.

Concerns are growing as Huawei seeks to become the world leader in telecommunications equipment and the best smartphone maker, and national security following the 2017 law requiring Chinese companies to cooperate with the government on security matters.

Canada’s two national intelligence agencies split on Huawei, one that supports banning 5G wireless networks, and the other that it could reduce risk.

Canada’s intelligence and security services and communications security were involved in assessing the risks and costs to users other than the country’s telecommunications and Huawei.

The Chinese company has already been banned from participating in government tenders and contracts, as well as supplying vital network equipment such as routers and switches.