EU Moves to Purge Chinese Tech from Critical Infrastructure Amid Push for Technological Sovereignty

The European Union is accelerating efforts to eliminate Chinese technology from sensitive infrastructure, targeting suppliers like Huawei and ZTE under new cybersecurity legislation. This strategic decoupling aligns with broader ambitions for technological self-reliance, though implementation faces hurdles as member states diverge in their timelines and commitments.

Germany leads with aggressive phase-out deadlines of 2026 and 2029 for critical systems, while Spain continues awarding multimillion-euro contracts to Chinese firms for law enforcement infrastructure. A €12.3 million Huawei contract for Spanish intelligence systems highlights the tension between Brussels' directives and national procurement practices.

The proposed Cybersecurity Act WOULD mandate replacement of "high-risk" vendor equipment across all member states, reflecting growing alignment with U.S. security concerns. However, the EU simultaneously seeks to reduce dependence on American technology through indigenous alternatives, creating a complex geopolitical balancing act.