Trump Administration Blocks Import of Humanoid Robots and Foreign Inverters, Citing National Security Risk

The administration of President Donald Trump has decided to ban the entry into the United States of new-generation humanoid robots, as well as four-legged models, manufactured in other countries. The measure also includes power inverters used in solar plants and data centers. According to U.S. authorities, these devices pose “unacceptable threats” to national security.

The announcement was made public by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which has placed these products on the so-called Covered List, a registry that compiles equipment and services deemed a risk to U.S. security. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr stated that the agency is taking these steps to protect the nation’s critical supply chains.

According to FCC arguments, robots manufactured outside U.S. borders could be exploited for surveillance of citizens, to enhance the capabilities of foreign intelligence services, or to be controlled remotely by actors with malicious intent. On the other hand, power inverters pose the risk of system disruptions, data theft, and facilitating cyberattacks on critical infrastructure.

The restriction applies only to new models of these devices. Robots and inverters that have previously obtained FCC authorization for import or sale in the U.S. market are not affected by this decision.

The context of the measure is directly linked to the fierce technological race between Washington and Beijing. The vast majority of advanced humanoid and four-legged robots are produced in China, which is competing with the U.S. in the robotics and artificial intelligence sectors. The decision is seen as an effort by the U.S. administration to maintain technological superiority and reduce dependence on imported technologies.

For its part, the Chinese Embassy in Washington has described this action as a politicization of trade relations and security issues. Beijing has expressed opposition to what it considers “groundless pretexts” for imposing sanctions on Chinese companies and has warned that it will take all necessary steps to protect its interests. Additionally, Chinese authorities have called on the United States to abandon a “hegemonic mentality” and support international cooperation in the development of artificial intelligence.