Spectrum Showdown: U.S. vs. China in Global Wireless Leadership

Senate Commerce Committee Chair Ted Cruz urged an investigation into China's influence over the U.S. spectrum auction policy. Congress lost spectrum auction authority in 2023, impacting telecom progress. China is accelerating its 5G and 6G plans, posing a competitive challenge to U.S. global telecom leadership.

The chair of the Senate Commerce Committee, Ted Cruz, has requested an investigation into China's potential covert attempts to disrupt U.S. Congress's extension of wireless spectrum auction authority. The Federal Communications Commission lost its broad spectrum auction powers from Congress in 2023, prompting lawmakers to consider new legislation.

China's push to dominate global telecommunications technology has raised alarms in the U.S., particularly amid accusations from the Chinese embassy of unfair practices against Chinese firms like Huawei. Cruz emphasized the economic and strategic importance of freeing up spectrum, warning of China's advancements in 5G and 6G technologies.

Cruz aims to attach spectrum auction authority to upcoming tax legislation. The proposal could potentially generate $100 billion, reinforcing U.S. telecom infrastructure. Meanwhile, the FCC continues to scrutinize Chinese telecommunications firms over security concerns, a move reflecting an ongoing tech rivalry with China.

(With inputs from agencies.)