The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has confirmed that major US online retailers have removed millions of listings for prohibited Chinese electronics, including smartwatches and security cameras, citing national security threats.
Key Takeaways
- FCC confirms removal of millions of Chinese electronics listings from US retail sites
- Action targets companies like Huawei, Hikvision, ZTE, and Dahua over security risks
- FCC plans further votes to strengthen restrictions on Chinese telecom equipment
- Agency investigating nine Chinese companies on its “Covered List”
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr told Reuters the removed items were either on a US list of barred equipment or lacked FCC authorization. He emphasized this is part of an agency-wide crackdown.
“These items could allow China to surveil Americans, disrupt communications networks and otherwise threaten U.S. national security,” Carr stated.
The FCC has notified companies about the ban on specific items, including video surveillance equipment. Companies are now implementing new processes to prevent prohibited items from being listed.
“We’re going to keep our efforts up,” Carr added.
Expanding Restrictions on Chinese Technology
This action continues a pattern of US agencies limiting Chinese technology across telecommunications, semiconductors, and vehicles due to security concerns.
Earlier this week, the FCC announced plans to vote this month on strengthening restrictions on telecommunications equipment from Chinese firms deemed national security risks.
The FCC’s Covered List and Future Actions
The FCC maintains a “Covered List” that includes companies like Huawei, ZTE, China Mobile, and China Telecom, prohibiting authorization of new equipment from these firms.
In October, the agency will vote on measures to:
- Block approval of devices containing parts from companies on the Covered List
- Allow the FCC to restrict sales of previously authorized equipment in certain cases
In March, the FCC revealed it was investigating nine Chinese companies on the Covered List, including Huawei, ZTE, Hytera Communications, Dahua Technology, Pacifica Networks/ComNet, and China Unicom (Americas).
The agency has previously barred some Chinese firms from offering telecommunications services in the US and recently began proceedings to withdraw recognition from seven Chinese government-controlled testing laboratories.
