In brief
In a move aimed at safeguarding national security, the Trump administration halted the entry of advanced foreign robots, particularly those manufactured in China. The FCC added power inverters to its covered list, warning of risks to critical infrastructure. The ban excludes existing, pre‑approved models but targets newer entrants that could enable surveillance or remote sabotage. Chinese companies have been lobbying back while the US tightens trade restrictions on Chinese tech exports.
Trump Administration Imposes Ban on Chinese Humanoid Robots
The US administration announced Tuesday a prohibition on the importation of new foreign‑made humanoid robots, citing unacceptable risks to national security.
The restriction covers advanced robotic devices—including humanoid and quadruped machines—predominantly manufactured in China, a leader in the robotics race against the United States. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) also added a ban on the import of power inverters, devices used in data centres and solar panels, due to concerns about potential cyber‑attack or sabotage.
FCC chair Brendan Carr said the agency was acting to secure America’s critical supply chains. The ban does not affect existing models that were previously cleared by the FCC, but it blocks the entry of newer technologies that could give foreign actors a foothold for surveillance, remote command, or intelligence gathering.
Chinese robotics firms Unitree, UBTech and AgiBot received inquiries from the BBC, while Beijing claimed that China’s AI development stems from international cooperation and its own dedication. The US continues to enforce strict tariffs, notably a 100% duty on electric vehicles, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned of sanctions on AI firms accused of IP theft.
The ban signals a broader strategy to curb China’s technological ascendancy amid escalating trade Tensions. While domestic American companies such as Elon Musk’s Tesla and Boston Dynamics lag, Chinese manufacturers have rapidly commercialised humanoid robots for factories, homes and the public eye.
