Telecom carriers may not use telecommunication core networks manufactured by Huawei Techologies Co (華為科技) because of concerns over national security, the National Communications Commission (NCC) said yesterday.
The Chinese company, headquartered in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, is the world’s second-largest supplier of mobile telecommunications equipment, preceded by Ericsson.
Several Taiwanese telecom service providers, including Asia--Pacific Telecom, Vibo, Taiwan Mobile and Far EasTone Telecommunications, have all purchased equipment from Huawei.
The imported products ranged from parts for local area networks and core networks to mobile phones and tablet PCs.
However, some of the products are still being held at customs.
Controversy over the use of Huawei’s products arose after India and the US blocked deals involving the Chinese company over fears the agreements could reinforce China’s spying capabilities and jeopardize national security.
Commission spokesperson Chen Jeng-chang (陳正倉) said the Executive Yuan has requested that it handle the case in a lawful and cautious manner.
Chen said that telecom companies planning to use telecommunication core networks need to secure approval from two government agencies. Aside from the commission, the network must also be approved by the Investigation Bureau.
Because of national security concerns, Chen said the companies could consider other suppliers that offer similar technologies.
Chen also suggested that the Ministry of Economic Affairs clearly list the telecommunications products from China that are banned from being imported so that telecoms companies can abide by the list and thus avoid any confusion.
A story published by the Chinese-language Commercial Times on Saturday last week said that Huawei could lose contracts worth millions of US dollars because some of Taiwan’s carriers had decided to turn to other suppliers.
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