Figure 4. Regulatory approaches and Chinese vendor presence in EU 5G networks
Description of categories for regulatory frameworks: Chinese equipment is explicitly banned: countries have introduced legal or policy measures prohibiting the use of Chinese providers. Tighter regulatory framework indicates stricter security or procurement rules that, while not banning Chinese providers, indirectly limit their involvement. Explicit or implicit authorization: Chinese vendors are allowed either through direct approval or the absence of restrictions. No information refers to cases where public data on national positions is unavailable.
Description of categories for the presence of Chinese providers: Significant role: Chinese vendors are key suppliers in national 5G networks, with a strong presence across major operators or critical infrastructure. Minor role: Chinese providers are used in a limited or marginal way, by smaller operators or in non-core parts of the network. No pattern means no presence of Chinese providers.
Chart: Elcano Royal Institute