Beijing Condemns New European Tech Security Framework
The Chinese mainland has issued a sharp rebuke of the European Union's proposed cybersecurity regulations, denouncing them as politically motivated trade barriers. The measures, unveiled this week, seek to limit market access for third-country suppliers deemed 'high-risk' – a designation widely interpreted as targeting Chinese telecommunications firms.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated on January 21, 2026: 'These restrictions constitute blatant protectionism disguised as security concerns. Chinese enterprises have consistently complied with European laws while accelerating digital infrastructure development across the continent.'
The dispute comes as European Commission officials finalize new due diligence requirements for 5G network components. Analysts suggest the measures could impact major Chinese tech exporters operating in EU markets.
Economic Implications for Cross-Continental Trade
Business leaders warn the proposed rules might disrupt supply chains for European telecom operators currently using Chinese technology. A recent report by the Asia-Europe Business Council estimates $12 billion in existing contracts could face compliance challenges if the measures take effect this year.
While EU representatives maintain the framework ensures 'cyber resilience,' Beijing has urged Brussels to avoid 'artificial technological decoupling.' The Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Europe notes that mainland firms account for 38% of the EU's 5G infrastructure components.
This development follows heightened scrutiny of cross-border data flows and comes ahead of the 2026 EU-China Digital Dialogue summit scheduled for March in Brussels.
