FCC bans humanoid robots from China, citing ‘unacceptable risks’
The FCC has banned the import and use of Chinese-made humanoid robots and power inverters, citing national security risks regarding data surveillance and remote control. This move is part of a broader Trump administration strategy to reduce reliance on Chinese technology and encourage domestic manufacturing.
Why it matters
This represents a significant escalation in the US-China tech trade war, impacting supply chains for critical infrastructure and emerging robotics sectors.
EngineAI T800 humanoid robots after rolling off the production line at a facility in Zhengzhou, Henan province, China, on 24 July 2026. EngineAI T800 humanoid robots after rolling off the production line at a facility in Zhengzhou, Henan province, China, on 24 July 2026. Trump administration FCC bans humanoid robots from China, citing ‘unacceptable risks’ Move comes as the Trump administration has increasingly sought to keep Chinese technology out of the US
Prefer the Guardian on Google The Federal Communications Commission announced a ban on humanoid robots from China on Tuesday, saying that the technology poses “unacceptable risks” to the country’s national security. The move comes as the Trump administration has increasingly sought to keep Chinese technology out of the US.
The FCC defines the banned robots as “advanced robotic devices”, which include humanoids and animal-like quadrupeds.
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