The United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announces a ban on importing newly authorized, foreign-made advanced robotic devices, including humanoid robots and quadruped “four-legged” robots, as well as power inverters. The FCC says the restrictions target products that pose “unacceptable risks” to US national security and cybersecurity. In its explanation, the FCC cites supply-chain vulnerabilities and concerns that the robots and inverters could be exploited for surveillance, remote access, or other malicious uses by foreign government actors, including through cyberattacks. The FCC chair, Brendan Carr, frames the move as part of efforts to “secure America’s critical supply chains.”
Several outlets note that the humanoid robot market is heavily supplied by China, and they describe the action as largely aimed at Chinese manufacturers and as another escalation in technology and trade competition between the US and China. Analysts quoted by one outlet suggest the US move may also provide time for domestic robot makers to catch up.
China’s foreign ministry responds by saying it firmly opposes the US action, describing it as suppression. The reporting also indicates the ban applies to newly imported/authorized items and does not necessarily affect already existing models previously authorized by the FCC.
