India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has tasked local telecom operators with providing detailed accounts of Chinese-manufactured equipment still operational within their networks. This initiative is part of India’s strategy to oversee Chinese participation in its telecom sector, addressing security vulnerabilities.
The measure targets companies like Huawei and ZTE, which have faced new deal bans in India since 2021 due to escalating political strains with China. India’s decision seeks to prevent untrusted vendors from future contracts, as set by the National Security Council Secretariat. Operators like Nokia, Ericsson, and Samsung have met this certification, while Huawei and ZTE continue operations under existing setups.
Despite restrictions, existing infrastructure by Huawei and ZTE remains in use. Notably, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea rely on their hardware primarily for 4G networks, and BSNL for 2G. The vendors are still permitted to service these installations, including necessary updates.
The directive coincides with increased tension between the U.S. and China over trade. President Donald Trump recently amplified tariffs on Chinese products to 145%. China reciprocated with its own tariffs, impacting Indian markets.
Additionally, India’s Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, recently attributed trade disruption issues to alleged past malpractice by China.
