# Argentina restricts Chinese tech in telecoms, could affect mobile phones

> Argentina adopts cybersecurity standard to limit Chinese tech in telecoms, potentially reshaping mobile markets.
- Title: Argentina restricts Chinese tech in telecoms, could affect…
- Summary: Argentina adopts cybersecurity standard to limit Chinese tech in telecoms, potentially reshaping mobile markets.
- Keywords: argentina, china, united states, telecom, huawei, zte, security standards, infrastructure, Clarín
- Source: Clarín — https://clarin.com/politica/gobierno-restringe-tecnologia-china-sector-telecomunicaciones-podria-impactar-mercado-telefonos-celulares_0_BWnofkEPnf.html
- Author: Alejandro Alfie
- Published: 2026-11-07T11:50:18+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: argentina, china, united states, telecom, 5g, huawei, zte, security standards, infrastructure, news
## 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.
## Key takeaway

Argentina's government implemented a cybersecurity standard restricting Chinese companies from telecom infrastructure, which may impact mobile phone networks and equipment suppliers.