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Chinese vendor insists it has strict code of conduct when it comes to compliance with export controls.
Huawei has been ordered to hand over information related to the export or re-export of U.S. technology to the likes of Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan and Syria.
According to a New York Times report on Thursday, the U.S. Commerce Department issued a subpoena to the Chinese vendor last month, directing company officials to testify in Texas, or to at least provide information about its dealings with those countries over the past five years, either directly or via shell companies.
The U.S. imposes strict rules on the use of American-made technology in network equipment exported to certain countries like Iran and North Korea. If Huawei is found to have violated these rules, it could be prevented from acquiring U.S. tech to use in its products.
That is what happened to Huawei’s domestic rival ZTE earlier this year, when it was accused by the Commerce Department of having breached export controls regarding Iran.
ZTE was later granted a temporary reprieve, allowing it to sidestep restrictions on using U.S. tech in its equipment while it hammered out a settlement with the authorities.
Huawei declined to comment specifically on the NYT report, but insisted that it plays by the rules.
"Huawei is committed to complying with the applicable laws and regulations in the markets where Huawei operates and export control measures promulgated by the international community, including those promulgated by UN, EU and the United States," the company said.
With regard to export control laws, Huawei said it has a strict code of conduct, "and actively cooperates with the relevant government authorities, including the Department of Commerce, regarding Huawei’s compliance."
