"This decision means that funds from the FCC’s Universal Service Fund cannot be used to purchase, obtain, maintain, improve, modify, or otherwise support any equipment or services provided by Huawei or ZTE," read the statement issued by the US body which regulates all communications technology.

"This designation is the latest step that the FCC has taken to secure America’s communications networks from the threats posed by Communist China and bad actors that might do its bidding," read the statement.

“We cannot treat Huawei and ZTE as anything less than a threat to our collective security,” Commissioner Carr stated.

“Communist China intends to surveil persons within our borders and engage in large-scale, industrial espionage.  Nothing short of prohibiting subsidized Huawei and ZTE gear from our networks could address this serious national security threat.  After all, Chinese law does not meaningfully restrain the Communist regime given its authoritarian nature.

“America has turned the page on the weak and timid approach to Communist China of the past.  We are now showing the strength needed to address Communist China’s threats.  And our efforts will not stop here.  The FCC will continue to take whatever steps are necessary to secure America’s communications networks from bad actors that would do us harm,” Commissioner Carr added.