US FCC bans Chinese humanoid robot imports over security fears

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has imposed a ban on imports of newly manufactured foreign-made humanoid robots and power inverters, citing national security concerns aimed primarily at China, which dominates the humanoid robot market with an 85% share. This action could strain U.S.-China relations ahead of a summit between President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping. The FCC’s chairperson Brendan Carr emphasized that the ban aims to protect U.S. supply chains from cybersecurity threats.

China has responded with accusations of protectionism and asserted that it will defend its companies' interests. Analysts suggest that while the ban will limit U.S. market access for Chinese manufacturers, it will not significantly hinder China's overall development in robotics, given its strong domestic production capabilities.