PARIS: France’s reported “hidden” ban on Huawei will not only delay 5G commercialization in the country that could have taken the lead in utilizing next-generation technology, but will increase uncertainties for local telecom operators, which are now struggling amid a severe economic downturn, analysts said.

French authorities have told telecom operators planning to buy Huawei 5G equipment that they won’t be able to renew licenses for the gear once they expire in 2028, effectively phasing the Chinese firm out of mobile networks, Reuters said.