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The U.S. government has added humanoid and quadruped robots to its restricted import list, citing significant national security risks posed by foreign-manufactured advanced robotics. According to a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announcement, the newly restricted items include mobile and advanced robotic devices built abroad, notably in China, where the vast majority of consumer and industrial humanoid robots are produced.
The restriction stems from conclusions reached by a White House working group, which found that foreign-built robots could threaten the safety and security of American citizens. National security agencies warn that these machines might introduce critical vulnerabilities into supply chains, potentially disrupting economic stability and threatening key national infrastructure through cyber security risks.
Economic and Geopolitical Stakes
Most humanoid robots currently operate in confined industrial spaces like automotive assembly lines or sorting warehouses. However, security concerns extend beyond physical workspaces. The White House working group document highlights an incident involving French programmer Sammy Azdoufal, who accidentally accessed data from numerous robotic vacuum cleaners manufactured by the Chinese firm DJI.
Additionally, the regulator added foreign-manufactured power inverters—devices that convert direct current from batteries or solar panels into standard alternating current for the electrical grid—to the restricted import list.
Impact on Domestic Manufacturing
The directive applies strictly to new models rather than units already sold or authorized within the United States. The policy aligns with broader federal efforts to revitalize domestic manufacturing. Several robotics companies already build certain humanoid systems stateside. Boston Dynamics plans to construct a domestic facility aiming for an eventual capacity of thousands of units annually.
Tesla is preparing for industrial production of its Optimus humanoid robot at facilities in Fremont, California, and Austin, Texas. Meanwhile, Figure AI manufactures robots in series at its San Jose, California plant. A U.S. government official clarified that the import ban targets finished robots delivered from abroad as well as units assembled domestically that incorporate more than 35 percent foreign-made components.
Beijing Responds to Trade Restrictions
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly criticized the decision, accusing Washington of weaponizing national security to suppress Chinese enterprises. During a regular press briefing, ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that Beijing firmly opposes the abuse of national security concepts to target Chinese companies.
“Protectionism does not improve American competitiveness; it only harms the interests of American businesses and consumers,” Mao said, adding that Beijing will take necessary measures to defend the rights and interests of Chinese firms.
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