US bans imports of new Chinese robots over security concerns
The US Federal Communications Commission has banned the import of new Chinese-made humanoid robots and power inverters over national security concerns. The move aims to mitigate cybersecurity risks and reduce reliance on Chinese technology in critical infrastructure.
Why it matters
This represents an escalation in the US-China technology trade war, specifically targeting emerging robotics and energy infrastructure sectors.
The action is part of a wider US effort to reduce reliance on Chinese technology in industries linked to artificial intelligence, energy and data centres.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info A worker near a line of humanoid robots displayed at the World AI Conference in Shanghai on July 17, 2026 [Ng Han Guan/AP] By AFP and Reuters Published On 29 Jul 2026 29 Jul 2026 The United States has banned imports of new Chinese-made humanoid robots, robot dogs and power inverters, arguing that the products could pose cybersecurity and national security risks to critical infrastructure.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced the restrictions on Tuesday, adding to the products on its list of equipment prohibited on national-security grounds. The rules took effect immediately but apply only to models not yet authorised for sale in the United States.
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