Huawei sues US over ‘unlawful’ ban on its products

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Chinese tech giant Huawei has filed a lawsuit against the US government over a ban that restricts federal agencies from using its products.

The US restrictions over national security concerns were dubbed ‘unlawful’ by Guo Ping, Huawei’s Chairman, saying, “This ban not only is unlawful, but also restricts Huawei from engaging in fair competition, ultimately harming US consumers.” 

In its most aggressive move yet, Huawei is asking a US federal court to overturn part of the National Defence Authorisation Act, which was signed by President Donald Trump in August.

The company alleges that a portion of the law – which forbids government agencies from using technology from Huawei and smaller rival, ZTE – violates the US constitution in which an individual group is declared guilty of a crime without fair trial.

Huawei says that the US failed to provide evidence to support the ban and also rejects claims that it had links to the Chinese government.

“Huawei is not owned, controlled, or influenced by the Chinese government. Moreover, Huawei has an excellent security record and program. No contrary evidence has been offered,” says Song Liuping, Huawei’s chief legal officer; describing the US ban as based on “numerous false, unproven and untested propositions”.

The company, at its press conference last week, was criticised for cutting the live feed before journalists could begin to ask questions.

The lawsuit filed by Huawei adds to what is likely to be months, if not years of legal battles, as well as continued diplomatic tensions. But what will that mean for US consumers amidst the launch of 5G?