FCC started collecting data on Huawei use in US networks

The US Federal Communications Commission began collecting information from telecommunications carriers on the use of Huawei and ZTE equipment and services in their networks. The proposal will first estimate the number of Huawei ZTE equipment used by these suppliers, and then provide financial assistance to help these suppliers replace Huawei ZTE equipment.

The specific information collected includes whether Huawei ZTE equipment and services are being used, what type of equipment or services, and how much it costs to purchase.

Today’s action initiates the process to collect information to aid in the design of a reimbursement program and inform any other potential FCC actions to protect the communications supply chain.

“Huawei and ZTE have been initially designated as threats to national security.  Given that those designations may become final this spring, we are moving forward quickly to identify where equipment and services from these suppliers are embedded in our communications networks and, where they do have a foothold, to be in a position to help remove them,” said FCC Chairman Ajit Pai.  “Today we’ve begun to collect the data we will need to protect our networks and protect the American people.”

The data assortment is required for qualified media communications bearers and their auxiliaries and associates information must be submitted on or before April 22, 2020.  The data collection is willful for transporters that are not qualified broadcast communications carriers. The Commission launched a portal through which this information will be submitted at www.fcc.gov/supplychain.