Editor-Curated Robotics Industry Briefing - RobotToday

US Bans New Imports of Humanoid Robots from China Amid Security Concerns

The United States has implemented a ban on new imports of foreign-made humanoid robots, citing national security concerns related to competition with China in robotics and AI. Announced on July 28, the restrictions target advanced humanoid and quadruped robots, primarily produced by Chinese manufacturers, and also include power inverters used in data centers and solar systems. This regulatory action is significant as it adds advanced robotic devices to the FCC’s Covered List, which identifies equipment deemed too risky for authorization in the US market. The FCC aims to protect critical supply chains and mitigate national security risks associated with foreign technologies. The move has drawn condemnation from China, which accuses the US of politicizing trade. As the ban reshapes the global humanoid robot market, it is noteworthy that six of the world's ten largest humanoid robot companies are based in China, holding approximately 87% of global shipments. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.