Huawei participates in eleven EU projects and receives a total of 3.89 million euros from Europe. This also gives insight into the latest technology projects.

Despite the ban on Huawei infrastructure in almost every third European country, the Chinese manufacturer remains heavily involved in EU projects (Horizon Europe). According to a study by the Financial Times, it will receive a total of 3.89 million euros for eleven projects, which corresponds to 14 percent of the total available EU budget.

The allocated budget is notable, but perhaps even more notable is the insight Huawei is getting into important future projects within Europe. Among these eleven projects are sensitive topics such as artificial intelligence, 6G and cloud. The Chinese manufacturer’s ability to do this is a potential problem for EU countries that have banned Huawei devices.

If Europe has ambitions to become self-sufficient in the development of critical technological infrastructure in the long term, this is not a good move. As one analyst quoted in the study, “It’s like inviting someone you don’t trust into your secret offices.” It could be risky for Europe’s security and the EU’s autonomy plans.”

In addition to the grants Huawei receives in 11 EU projects, Huawei is also active in two other programs for which it does not receive grants.

Response from Huawei

The Chinese manufacturer replied to the investigation that it had conducted research in more than 30 EU programs since 2007. Accordingly, Huawei’s accession to the Horizon Europe project was “independently evaluated by various expert bodies set up by the EU” and officially accepted.

Two coordinators within two EU projects in which Huawei is active point to the correct cooperation with the Chinese manufacturer and see no problems in this. The nine other projects did not respond to the survey.

Despite EU money, Europe wants to close the door on Huawei at the same time. A formal ban on all critical infrastructure hardware was considered in early June. Not all Member States have yet responded to this request. Germany, among others, seems to be delaying the decision.