Huawei Bribery Scheme Allegedly Funneled Cash And Perks To European Politicians

A major corruption probe is underway as European authorities investigate claims that Huawei funneled money and lavish benefits to lawmakers in exchange for support within the European Parliament. At least 15 lawmakers are under scrutiny, with five individuals already facing criminal charges.

Belgian prosecutors say the influence operation was carefully disguised under the appearance of legitimate lobbying and started in 2021. Items offered allegedly included soccer tickets, trips and dining, alongside direct financial payments.

A 2021 document signed by several lawmakers is now key evidence in the case. The letter opposed European actions against Chinese tech providers. Though it didn’t mention Huawei by name, investigators say the company’s interests were clearly being promoted.

One MEP tied to the case, Italy’s Fulvio Martusciello, has come under particular focus. His staff and former adviser have been detained. According to investigators, the writer of the letter was promised over $16,000, with the signatories reportedly each receiving around $1,600.

The European Parliament has not responded to requests for comment, even as its own offices have been searched. Authorities raided 21 different properties as part of the operation in both Belgium and Portugal.

Huawei has released a statement denying involvement in wrongdoing and emphasizing that it follows all legal regulations and has “zero tolerance” for unethical conduct.

OLAF, the EU’s fraud watchdog, had earlier dismissed a tip from an NGO about the suspicious political activity. It declined to pursue an internal investigation, saying the concerns did not reach the necessary threshold for action.

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