KPN wants to build a 5G network with equipment from Huawei’.

KPN would like to build its 5G network by the Chinese manufacturer Huawei. That’s what sources involved in the preparations say to RTL Z. Huawei is currently a controversial company, because several countries are concerned about the influence of the Chinese government on the company.

Several countries, including the United States, Australia and New Zealand, have banned Huawei equipment. The reason is that they are afraid that the Chinese government could use this technology to spy on the countries. Under pressure from the United States, this fear is also increasing in European countries. Moreover, security experts have found no evidence to support these accusations, and the Americans have never made their evidence public.

In the Netherlands there is no ban yet, but the government is busy formulating policy on the increasing influence of Chinese companies. In February, GroenLinks said that the Netherlands should avoid using the equipment of the company and other Chinese manufacturers.

KPN decision

KPN therefore seems to be anticipating this policy. Sources from RTL Z say that KPN and Huawei only need to sign the contract for the construction of the 5G network. The Chinese manufacturer was due to start construction this month. However, a spokesman for KPN states that no final decision has yet been taken on the supplier of the 5G network. The company does not confirm or deny that it wants to cooperate with the Chinese.

The spokesman goes on to say that KPN is aware of the accusations against Huawei. “Safety is a top priority at KPN, we monitor our networks, equipment and infrastructure 24/7 and are in continuous dialogue with relevant stakeholders, including the government, on these kinds of issues.

Huawei has not yet responded to the rumour. The Ministry of Economic Affairs does not want to comment on the news as long as KPN’s decision has not yet been officially confirmed by the two companies.