US bans imports of new Chinese robots over security concerns
Al Jazeera English
The US FCC has banned imports of Chinese humanoid robots, robotic dogs, and power inverters due to cybersecurity and national security risks. The ban targets new models not yet approved for sale and is part of broader efforts to reduce reliance on Chinese tech.
The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Tuesday announced a ban on imports of humanoid robots, four-legged robotic dogs, and power inverters manufactured in China, citing potential risks to cybersecurity and national security for critical infrastructure.
The ban takes immediate effect but applies only to models not yet authorized for sale in the US market. The FCC stated that these devices could create vulnerabilities in the supply chain, particularly if foreign actors are able to infiltrate or control them.
“These devices could create vulnerabilities in the supply chain, disrupting US economic and national security,” the agency said.
The move is part of a broader US effort to reduce reliance on Chinese technology in sectors involving artificial intelligence, energy, and data centers. Power inverters are used to connect solar panels, batteries, and other power sources to the grid and data center equipment. Humanoid robots and four-legged robotic dogs are increasingly deployed in factories, warehouses, and research facilities.
The ban is expected to affect Unitree, a Chinese robotics company that previously partnered with Nvidia to develop robots using the US chipmaker’s technology. The Pentagon recently added Unitree to a list of companies allegedly linked to the Chinese military, though Beijing has denied those claims.
China’s embassy in Washington criticized the latest action and called on the US to stop targeting Chinese companies. “We urge the US to listen to the objective and reasonable voices from the business communities of both countries and stop smearing Chinese companies and threatening sanctions against them,” the embassy said. Beijing also vowed to “take all necessary measures to respond to any actions that harm its interests.”
The ban also includes new power inverters from China. Huawei and Sungrow are leading suppliers in this sector. The restrictions do not affect products already approved for sale in the US, though the FCC may revoke such approvals in certain cases.
The decision comes as President Donald Trump’s administration pushes companies to expand advanced manufacturing in the US. Tesla, Figure AI, Agility Robotics, and Boston Dynamics are among the companies developing or assembling humanoid robots domestically. Tesla has said it plans to ramp up production of its Optimus robot, while Figure AI and Agility Robotics already operate US-based manufacturing facilities for industrial robots.
The move is likely to heighten tensions between Washington and Beijing, already at odds over advanced chips, artificial intelligence, trade, and strategic technology supply chain controls.
