Huawei has filed a lawsuit against the Federal Communications Commission regarding restrictions imposed on its products.
The FCC has prohibited US carriers from using funds from the Universal Service Fund (USF) to purchase equipment from Huawei. The USF aids in the acquisition of equipment intended for developing communication infrastructure in the United States. The focus of the fund is on enhancing communication infrastructure in rural areas, a market where Huawei offers its products. Consequently, Huawei has initiated legal action against the US government and has brought the case to the US Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. The company is seeking to have the FCC overturn the ban on utilizing USF funds for buying its equipment or have the Fifth Circuit nullify the ban.
Huawei’s products are known for their reliability and affordability. This has made the company’s offerings appealing, especially to smaller carriers that serve remote areas. Presently, many of these carriers are contemplating opting for Nokia or Ericsson as alternatives, although these companies charge higher prices.
Glen Nager, Huawei’s lead attorney for the lawsuit, argues that the FCC ban is unconstitutional. Nager stated, “The order does not afford Huawei the constitutionally mandated due process before labeling it a national security risk, such as the right to challenge alleged evidence and witnesses and a fair and unbiased hearing process.”