Belgian prosecutors launched a major corruption investigation involving Huawei and the European Parliament. Authorities suspect the Chinese tech giant used bribes to influence EU policies. Since 2021, investigators say Huawei offered payments and gifts to Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and their aides. These actions were disguised as routine lobbying but allegedly aimed to sway votes and gain favorable treatment.
On March 13, police carried out 21 raids across Belgium and Portugal. They searched Huawei’s Brussels offices and parliamentary assistants’ workspaces. Officials seized documents, digital evidence, and arrested several suspects. Eight individuals face charges including corruption, money laundering, and criminal association. Three remain in custody, three wear electronic monitors, and two are on conditional release.
Suspects and Political Repercussions in EU Corruption Case
Though investigators have not officially named suspects, reports highlight Valerio Ottati, Huawei’s EU public affairs director, as a central figure. Ottati allegedly coordinated closely with multiple MEPs. Abraham Liu, Huawei’s chief EU representative, is also linked to the probe.
Belgian authorities have requested to lift the immunity of five MEPs to question their involvement. These include Italian lawmakers Salvatore De Meo, Giusi Princi, and Fulvio Martusciello from the European People’s Party (EPP). Malta’s Daniel Attard (Socialists) and Bulgaria’s Nikola Minchev (Renew Europe) are also under scrutiny.
Offices of aides to MEPs Falcone and Minchev have been sealed. Italian police arrested parliamentary assistant Lucia Simeone, who was later released under conditions.
A 2021 letter advocating 5G expansion in Europe, circulated by Martusciello’s office, has drawn attention. Prosecutors allege Huawei paid those who signed the letter through disguised consultancy fees. However, five current MEPs who signed the letter deny receiving any payments from Huawei.
European Parliament Restricts Huawei Access Amid Scandal
In response, the European Parliament banned Huawei lobbyists from all its buildings in Brussels, Strasbourg, and Luxembourg. The European Commission has also cut ties with groups representing Huawei’s interests. Officials now refuse to engage with Huawei or its affiliated lobbyists.
Huawei released a statement saying it takes the allegations seriously and will cooperate fully with investigators. The company affirmed its strict anti-corruption policy and commitment to comply with all laws and standards.