US bans imports of new Chinese robots over security concerns

The Federal Communications Commission announced restrictions on Tuesday targeting Chinese-manufactured robotics and electrical equipment deemed to pose security threats. The ban covers humanoid robots, four-legged robot dogs, and power inverters—devices that connect renewable energy sources and batteries to electrical grids and data-centre systems. The restrictions apply only to models not yet authorised for sale in the United States, leaving previously approved products unaffected, though the FCC retains authority to revoke certain existing approvals.

According to the FCC, these devices present supply-chain vulnerabilities that could be exploited by foreign actors seeking to compromise or control critical infrastructure. The agency stated that the equipment could disrupt US economic and national security if compromised. Power inverters are particularly significant in solar and battery integration, while humanoid and quadrupedal robots are increasingly deployed in factories, warehouses, and research facilities.

The restrictions are expected to impact Unitree, a Chinese robotics manufacturer that has collaborated with Nvidia on robot systems. The Pentagon recently designated Unitree as having alleged links to China's military, a claim Beijing has denied. Other affected suppliers include Huawei and Sungrow, major Chinese providers of power inverters.

China's embassy in Washington criticised the action, calling on the United States to cease targeting Chinese companies and to heed business community voices from both nations. Beijing indicated it would pursue countermeasures in response to actions harming its interests. The decision aligns with the Trump administration's push to expand advanced manufacturing domestically, with companies including Tesla, Figure AI, Agility Robotics, and Boston Dynamics developing or assembling humanoid robots within the United States.