From Clarín · Alejandro Alfie · · 1m 50s
Argentina restricts Chinese tech in telecoms, could affect mobile phones
Argentina adopts cybersecurity standard to limit Chinese tech in telecoms, potentially reshaping mobile markets.
In brief
Argentina adopts cybersecurity standard to limit Chinese tech in telecoms, potentially reshaping mobile markets. Argentina's government implemented a cybersecurity standard restricting Chinese companies from telecom infrastructure, which may impact mobile phone networks and equipment suppliers. Originally reported by…
Government adopts cybersecurity standard
Argentina's government implemented a cybersecurity standard to restrict Chinese companies from telecom infrastructure, initially targeting state purchases including Arsat.
Standard references US industry certification
The standard uses the Telecommunications Industry Association's SCS 9001 certification, which was used in paraguay's 5g tender but faced strong criticism.
US government pushes for restrictions
The decision responds to a direct request from the White House to limit chinese access to strategic telecom sectors, aligning with milei's relationship with trump.
US ambassador supports move
US ambassador Peter Lamelas praised the move, stating it protects critical telecom infrastructure and ensures markets are not blind to security risks.
Huawei expresses concern
Huawei stated it received the regulation with surprise and concern, noting it limits companies with decades of experience and compliance in the country.
Impact on private telecom operators
One major mobile operator uses 70% of its network with huawei technology, while another uses huawei in its fixed network infrastructure.
Regulation applies to state contracts
The regulation requires state entities to incorporate new security requirements in procurement contracts for critical telecom infrastructure within 90 days.
Potential extension to private operators
The regulation may extend to private operators using chinese equipment, requiring them to reassess equipment and investment plans.
Industry groups express concerns
The Association Argentina TIC, Video and Connectivity expressed concern about the impact on telecom operators and called for public dialogue before implementing new requirements.
Alternative security standards proposed
Industry sources suggested alternative international security standards like iso 27001 and common criteria, but noted the lack of economic impact analysis.
The main idea
Argentina's government implemented a cybersecurity standard restricting Chinese companies from telecom infrastructure, which may impact mobile phone networks and equipment suppliers.
