Spectrum Wars: U.S. vs. China in Wireless Leadership

Senate Commerce Committee Chair Ted Cruz asked U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard to investigate China's influence in preventing Congress from extending wireless spectrum auction authority. With the FCC losing auction authority, Cruz pushes for new legislation. He warns of China's advancements in 5G and 6G, stressing U.S. leadership.

Senate Commerce Committee Chair Ted Cruz has called on U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard to examine whether China is covertly working to halt Congressional efforts in extending wireless spectrum auction authority. The Federal Communications Commission's mandate to hold wireless spectrum sales was withdrawn by Congress in 2023, prompting lawmakers to prepare legislation authorizing new auctions essential for expanding wireless usage.

Cruz raised concerns, stating, "China is actively trying to dominate this sector, ensuring global telecommunications infrastructure is rooted in their technology." He emphasized that unleashing spectrum for commercial use is not only vital for U.S. economic growth but essential for maintaining global leadership. A new spectrum auction could potentially generate over $100 billion, he noted.

Amidst ongoing U.S. debates, China declared plans to expand spectrum bands for future 5G and 6G technology. Furthermore, the Federal Communications Commission is set to re-auction spectrum to aid telecom firms in removing equipment from Chinese companies Huawei and ZTE. The commission is also investigating nine other Chinese telecom entities for possible U.S. restriction evasions. This action forms part of a broader U.S. crackdown on Chinese telecom and tech companies due to national security issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)