In this September 26, 2018 file photo, visitors walk past the display of Chinese technology company ZTE at PT Expo in Beijing.
Mark Schiefelbein/AP
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Mark Schiefelbein/AP
In this September 26, 2018 file photo, visitors walk past the display of Chinese technology company ZTE at PT Expo in Beijing.
Mark Schiefelbein/AP
WASHINGTON — The United States is banning the sale of communications equipment made by Chinese companies Huawei and ZTE, and restricting the use of some Chinese-made video surveillance systems, citing “unlikely risks” acceptable” for national security.
The five-member Federal Communications Commission said Friday it has voted unanimously to pass new rules that will prevent the importation or sale of certain technology products that pose a security risk to the establishment. critical infrastructure in the United States. It is the latest in a years-long escalation of US restrictions on Chinese technology, which began under President Donald Trump and continued under the administration of President Joe Biden.
“The FCC is committed to protecting our national security by ensuring that untrusted communications devices are not allowed within our borders, and we are continuing that work here.” , FCC Chairman Jessica Rosenworcel, a Democrat, said in a prepared statement.
Huawei declined to comment on Friday. Along with Huawei and ZTE, the order affects products from companies such as Hikvision and Dahua, makers of widely used video surveillance cameras.
The FCC’s order applies to future device licenses, although the agency leaves open the possibility that previous licenses may be revoked.
“Our unanimous decision represents the first time in FCC history that we voted to ban the licensing of new equipment based on national security concerns,” said Brendan Carr, Republican commissioner of the National Security Council. FCC, wrote on Twitter.
Carr added that “due to our order, no new Huawei or ZTE devices can be approved. And no new Dahua, Hikvision or Hytera devices can be approved unless they warrant it,” Carr added. to the FCC that their equipment will not be used for public safety, security of government facilities, or other national security purposes.”
Hikvision said in a statement that its video products “present no security threat” to the United States, but the FCC’s decision “will do a lot to make it more harmful and more expensive.” to America’s small businesses, local governments, school districts, and individual consumers to protect themselves, their homes, businesses, and assets.”
