The US bans the sale and import of Chinese technology from Huawei, ZTE

WASHINGTON – The US bans the sale of communications devices made by Chinese Huawei company and ZTE and restricting the use of some Chinese-made video surveillance systems, citing an “unacceptable risk” to national security.

The five-member Federal Communications Commission said Friday it voted unanimously to pass new rules blocking the import or sale of certain technology products that pose security risks to critical U.S. infrastructure. It’s the latest in a year-long escalation of US restrictions on Chinese technology that began with President Donald Trump has continued under President Joe Biden’s administration.

“The FCC is committed to protecting our national security by ensuring that untrusted communications devices are not authorized for use within our borders, and we continue that work here,” said FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel, a Democrat, in a prepared statement.

Huawei declined to comment on Friday. In addition to Huawei and ZTE, the order includes products from companies such as Hikvision and Dahua, makers of popular video surveillance cameras.

The FCC’s order applies to future device approvals, although the agency leaves open the option to revoke previous approvals.

“Our unanimous decision marks the first time in FCC history that we have voted to ban the approval of new devices due to national safety concerns,” tweeted Brendan Carr, a Republican FCC commissioner.

Carr added that “no new Huawei or ZTE devices can be approved as a result of our order. And no new Dahua, Hikvision, or Hytera equipment can be approved unless they assure the FCC that their equipment will not be used for public safety, government security, or other national security purposes.”

Hikvision said in a statement that its video products “pose no security threat” to the U.S., but the FCC’s decision “will do much to make it more harmful and expensive for U.S. small businesses, local governments, school districts and individual consumers to take care of themselves.” to protect their homes, businesses and property.”