WASHINGTON: The Trump administration has announced a ban on the import of new foreign-made advanced humanoid robots and power inverters, citing what officials described as “unacceptable risks” to US national security and critical infrastructure.
The new restrictions, unveiled on Tuesday, target advanced robotic systems—including humanoid and four-legged robots—many of which are manufactured in China. The decision marks another escalation in the technological rivalry between the United States and China, particularly in the rapidly expanding fields of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI).
According to US officials, the restrictions apply to newly imported advanced robotic devices produced overseas. The move is designed to reduce America’s reliance on foreign technology in sectors considered strategically important for national security.
Humanoid robots are increasingly being developed for industrial manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, research, and defense-related applications. As China accelerates investment in AI-powered robotics, Washington has raised concerns that imported technologies could expose critical systems to cyber threats or foreign influence.
Power Inverters Also Added to Restricted List
Alongside advanced robots, the US government has also prohibited the import of certain foreign-made power inverters—electronic devices widely used in data centers, renewable energy systems, and solar power installations.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) said the devices could potentially threaten the US economy if exploited by hostile foreign actors.
Officials warned that compromised inverters could allow overseas entities to remotely disable equipment, access sensitive data, conduct surveillance, or launch cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said the agency is taking additional steps to strengthen the security of America’s critical supply chains.
He confirmed that both advanced robotic systems and power inverters have been added to the FCC’s Covered List, which identifies communications equipment and technology considered a threat to US national security.
