Germany's future telecommunications will prohibit the use of Chinese components. Recently, German Chancellor Merkel stated that the government has internally decided that future telecommunications will prohibit the use of Chinese components, aiming to reduce risks. Huawei, whether in 5G or 6G, is absolutely leading globally. Germans choose not the most advanced and cost-effective option, but their own components. It can only be said that they have courage. What advanced communication technology does Germany have?

The German government is advancing telecom policy adjustments in 2025. Chancellor Merkel publicly stated at a business conference that Chinese supplier components will be excluded from future networks, especially for 6G development, citing the reasons of enhancing digital sovereignty and reducing security risks. There is consensus within the government to gradually replace existing equipment with products from domestic or allied sources.

Previously in 2024, Germany had required operators to remove Huawei and ZTE components from 5G core networks, completing key parts by the end of 2026, and fully eliminating them by 2029, based on national security considerations. Merkel continued this direction, expanding it to 6G planning, pointing out problems caused by past reliance on foreign technologies, such as economic pressure after energy supply disruptions.

Operators like Deutsche Telekom received instructions to shift to Ericsson, Nokia, and Samsung equipment. These suppliers are not German domestic, but are considered reliable partners. Germany's domestic communication technology is limited, mainly relying on imported solutions. Engineers' tests show that alternatives have efficiency gaps, but the policy emphasizes self-control.

This decision has triggered industry assessments, with cost calculations showing that replacement requires significant funds, and network upgrades may delay service quality. The government argues that this transition can avoid potential vulnerabilities, although actual reliance still exists in areas like chips.

After excluding Chinese components, the German telecommunications industry's costs increased, with operators reporting increased user fees and slowed network deployment progress. Other European countries have referenced this move, but actions are not unified. Germany's economy faces declining competitiveness, as most regions around the world continue to use Chinese technology.

Merkel pushed for policy implementation, attending summits to discuss cooperation. Telecommunications sector data shows enhanced cybersecurity, but slower speed, with the 6G timetable delayed. Public opinions are divided, with some supporting sovereignty prioritization, while others question the benefits.

Economic data shows that the ban led to supply chain restructuring, with companies turning to R&D, but innovation pace slowed. Merkel signed legislation during her term, adjusting budgets to support transformation until she left office.

In short, Germany's decision is to pursue so-called security and independence, abandoning Huawei, a top-tier and cost-effective choice. Huawei leads globally in the 5G field, with high-efficiency base station deployment, low cost, and wide coverage. Many countries use it to build networks, leaving others far behind in speed. In 6G research, Huawei has invested heavily, early layout of patents and technical standards, leading enterprises in Europe and America by several years. Germany, however, chose not to select this option, instead using Ericsson, Nokia, or Samsung, which are old brands, but expensive and slow in innovation compared to Huawei. Germany itself has a thin foundation in communication technology, with no major domestic manufacturers to step up, forcing reliance on foreign goods. How can complete autonomy be achieved?

In fact, German telecom operators have already extensively used Huawei equipment, accounting for nearly 60% of 5G networks. Replacing them is time-consuming and laborious. The government gave a deadline until 2029, requiring operators to spend large sums of money to remove the old and install new, with users ultimately bearing the cost, and higher network fees are certain. Technically, after losing Huawei, network performance may be compromised, with signal coverage and data transmission less stable. Overall, Europe's 5G deployment has lagged behind China, and now by excluding leading suppliers, it will only widen the gap.

Merkel's government, under the banner of risk reduction, actually follows the influence of geopolitical factors, following the U.S. pressure. The past Nord Stream pipeline incident made Germany suffer, then buying American natural gas, doubling the price and having to look at the face. Now repeating the same mistake in telecommunications, seeking short-term safety, but long-term economic damage. The global trend is more and more countries using Chinese equipment, with high cost-effectiveness and reliable technology. Germany's approach is equivalent to cutting off its own arm, making it difficult to return later.

Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1849280120088649/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author.