Telstra halts sales of ZTE phones after US ban hits manufacturer

Telstra has ceased sales of its branded ZTE phones following a US government-imposed ban that has forced the device manufacturer to shut down.

The US government issued an order against ZTE, forbidding firms from supplying it with components and technology after it was found to have violated US export restrictions by illegally shipping goods to Iran.

The order led to ZTE announcing it had ceased its major operating activities on Wednesday.

Telstra today announced it would stop selling Telstra-branded ZTE mobiles and mobile broadband devices through its stores and partners.

“This was a difficult but necessary decision given ZTE’s decision to cease major operating activities and we apologise that this will result in a temporary reduction in device options for customers," the telco said.

“We are working with our device partners to source alternative models as quickly as possible to help meet the needs of customers. We want to make sure any device we offer customers is available through all of our stores.”

Telstra said customers who already owned ZTE devices would not immediately be impacted by the ceasing of sales, and that they would be contacted should this change.

“We are hopeful that ZTE will be able to reach a resolution to this matter soon so that we can recommence selling Telstra-branded ZTE devices,” Telstra wrote.

Here’s the full list of mobiles and broadband devices that will no longer be sold:

Phones
Telstra Flip 2
Telstra Tough 4
Telstra Tough 5
Telstra Tough Max 2
Telstra 4GX Enhanced
Telstra 4GX Premium
Telstra Flip 2
Telstra Lite
Telstra Lite Smart
Telstra 4GX Smart
Telstra Smart Plus
Telstra 4GX Plus
Telstra 4GX HD
Telstra Easycall 4
Telstra Slim Plus
Telstra Buzz 4GX
Telstra T96
Telstra Tempo
Telstra Cruise