WASHINGTON, Oct 28 (Reuters) – The President of the United States, Donald Trump, concluded on Wednesday that the importation of robots and machinery poses risks to national security, but did not impose any immediate tariffs, ordering, instead, that authorities maintain negotiations with foreign governments on import levels.
The decision spares American manufacturers — who rely on foreign imports for most types of robotics and industrial machinery — from new immediate tariffs, but keeps the threat of imposing tariffs if negotiations with trading partners do not reach an agreement.
After an investigation that lasted more than a year, Trump instructed the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Trade Representative to jointly negotiate agreements with trading partners to address concerns about imported robotics and industrial machinery, and stated that he could still impose tariffs at a later date.
He directed agencies to submit a report in 180 days on the progress of negotiations with trading partners.
In September 2025, Trump launched the investigation to analyze imported robotics and industrial machinery, such as computer-controlled programmable mechanical systems and stamping and pressing industrial machines.
The robotics investigation encompassed machine tools for cutting, welding, and handling parts, autoclaves and industrial furnaces. Laser cutting and water-jet cutting tools and machines are also included.
In July, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission prohibited the import of new models of Chinese robots and energy inverters. The rule allows the import of existing models of humanoid and quadruped robots.
Some analysts foresee wide adoption of humanoid robots, equipped with “brains” powered by AI, in consumer and industrial sectors, while the expanding construction of data centers in the U.S. will depend on reliable funding from investors.
“Robots collect data that could be exploited by malicious actors to surveil Americans, enhance the capabilities of foreign intelligence services, or to remotely control the robots,” the FCC said in July.
The Department of Commerce stated that the United States depends on foreign imports for most types of robotics and industrial machinery.
In July, the Department of Commerce completed an investigation into imported commercial aircraft, jet engines and parts, and found that foreign products raise concerns about the United States’ national security.
