Telefónica Removes Huawei 5G Gear in Spain, Germany Retains in Brazil

Spanish telecom giant Telefónica is phasing out all Huawei 5G equipment in Spain and Germany to comply with local security regulations and government restrictions on Chinese technology in core telecommunications infrastructure. The European Commission has urged member states to exclude high-risk vendors like Huawei from national 5G networks over cybersecurity concerns, prompting Telefónica's reduction of Huawei exposure in these European markets. In contrast, Telefónica will continue using Huawei gear in Brazil and other Latin American countries where no such restrictions exist, reflecting a region-specific approach to regulatory compliance and network security. Telefónica’s Chief Operating Officer Emilio Gayo emphasized adherence to local rules, and Chief Executive Marc Murtra stated that all equipment used meets strict security standards to protect the company and its customers. The company’s exposure to Huawei is also very low in the U.K., which has banned Huawei from its 5G infrastructure. Despite the phase-out in Europe, Telefónica's strategy highlights the divergence in global regulatory environments affecting telecom equipment choices.