started · updated
US-China dispute escalates over Huawei technology in Vaca Muerta
A diplomatic dispute has emerged between the United States and China regarding the use of Huawei technology in Argentina’s strategic energy sector, specifically within the Vaca Muerta shale formation. US Ambassador Peter Lamelas warned during the AmCham Energy Forum 2026 that Chinese technology poses national security risks, alleging that Beijing requires companies to provide state access to data processed through their networks. Lamelas suggested that such involvement could deter international investment in the region.
The Chinese Embassy in Argentina responded by labeling these accusations as “baseless slander” and “sowing fear in the market,” accusing the US of operating with a “Cold War mentality.” China defended Huawei’s cybersecurity record, noting the company has committed to signing “no backdoor” agreements and undergoing independent third-party audits.
The tension centers on a project involving the Neuquén-based cooperative CALF, which is negotiating with Huawei for fiber optic and data center infrastructure. Following the controversy, CALF officials met with Ambassador Lamelas to maintain institutional dialogue regarding data security and the cooperative’s expansion plans.
Entities
CALF · Chinese Embassy in Argentina · Embajada de China en Argentina · Huawei · Peter Lamelas · United States Embassy in Argentina · Vaca Muerta
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 7 SOURCES] The Chinese Embassy in Argentina described the US accusations against Huawei and the Chinese government as baseless slander. www.borderperiodismo.com · cuestionentrerriana.com.ar · www.prensa-latina.cu · contigopuebla.mx · www.cronica.com.ar · +2 more
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Neuquén cooperative CALF met with the US Ambassador to maintain institutional dialogue following previous tensions regarding a Huawei deal. elnuevodiario.com.do
- [● 6 SOURCES] Ambassador Lamelas warned that Chinese providers could deter the foreign investment needed to develop the Vaca Muerta shale formation. www.adnsur.com.ar · www.politicargentina.com · www.cronica.com.ar · www.surenio.com.ar · totalnewsagency.com · +1 more
- [● 7 SOURCES] The Chinese Embassy accused Washington of acting with a Cold War mentality. cuestionentrerriana.com.ar · www.prensa-latina.cu · www.borderperiodismo.com · contigopuebla.mx · www.cronica.com.ar · +2 more
- [● 4 SOURCES] Huawei has committed to signing 'no backdoor' agreements and undergoing independent audits and verifications. www.borderperiodismo.com · contigopuebla.mx · actualidad.rt.com · buenosairesherald.com
- [● 8 SOURCES] US Ambassador Peter Lamelas stated that China requires its companies to provide the state access to data processed via their technology and AI networks. totalnewsagency.com · www.cronica.com.ar · www.adnsur.com.ar · www.politicargentina.com · sintinta.com.ar · +3 more