Chinese technology giant Huawei is facing renewed scrutiny as Belgian authorities conduct an investigation into allegations of corruption related to its lobbying activities within the European Parliament. Raids have been executed on Huawei’s EU offices and the residences of its lobbyists across multiple locations, including Brussels, Flanders, Wallonia, and Portugal.
The probe, codenamed “Operation Generation,” centers on suspicions that Huawei lobbyists engaged in bribery, forgery, money laundering, and criminal organization, potentially offering inducements to Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) in exchange for political support. Approximately 15 current and former MEPs are reportedly implicated in the investigation.
The Belgian Federal Prosecutor’s Office has confirmed the questioning of several individuals regarding their alleged involvement in corruption within the European Parliament. The investigation, initiated two years ago following a tip-off from Belgian intelligence, has uncovered evidence suggesting Huawei representatives provided expensive football tickets, luxury trips to China, and direct cash payments to secure favorable outcomes. Payments to lawmakers are suspected to have been routed through a Portuguese company.
While no searches have been conducted at the European Parliament, authorities are investigating offenses including bribery, criminal organization, and money laundering. As of now, no requests have been made to lift the immunity of any sitting MEPs. Huawei has not released an official statement regarding the raids.
