Huawei Faces 2026 Trial Over U.S. Sanctions, Fraud

A U.S. federal judge has ruled that Huawei Technologies must stand trial in May 2026 on a 16-count indictment that includes racketeering, theft of trade secrets from six U.S. firms, wire and bank fraud, and violations of U.S. sanctions related to both Iran and North Korea. The judge denied Huawei's motion to dismiss most charges, citing sufficient evidence to proceed. Prosecutors allege Huawei used Skycom, a Hong Kong-based shell company, to facilitate over $100 million in U.S. financial transactions for business in Iran and to conduct business in North Korea. The indictment also claims Huawei installed surveillance equipment in Iran that was used to monitor protesters. Huawei has pleaded not guilty and argues it has been unfairly targeted. The lengthy trial is expected to further strain U.S.-China relations and may have significant implications for international technology competition.