Trump Administration Bans New Foreign Humanoid Robots and Power Inverters

The Trump administration has announced a ban on the import of new foreign-made humanoid robots and power inverters, citing "unacceptable risks" to United States national security. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) added these items to its Covered List, which identifies goods and services deemed a risk to the US. The ban applies specifically to new models—including advanced humanoid and four-legged machines, as well as connected power inverters used in solar panels and data centers—but does not prevent the sale or import of existing models previously authorized by the FCC.

US officials and the FCC stated that foreign-made robots could allow malign actors to surveil Americans or remotely commandeer devices. Similarly, concerns were raised that foreign-made power inverters could enable overseas firms to steal data, facilitate remote access, or disrupt critical infrastructure through cyberattacks. One report noted that the ban also extends to robots assembled within the US if they contain more than 35% foreign-manufactured components.

The Chinese embassy in Washington has condemned the move, accusing the US of "politicising" trade issues based on "groundless pretexts." Beijing urged the US to stop smearing Chinese companies and warned that it would take all necessary measures to protect its interests. The ban is expected to significantly impact Chinese firms like Unitree, a global leader in humanoid robots that recently partnered with Nvidia.

The move occurs amid broader tensions over AI and trade, including existing US tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and restrictions on the sale of high-end semiconductors to China. Outlets with a center lean frame this action as part of a strategic competition between the US and China for leadership in robotics and artificial intelligence. In contrast, outlets with a center-left lean frame the ban as an effort to reshore key industries and protect the American AI supply chain from disruption.