Trump says imported robotics pose national security risks but does not impose tariffs
XLI•Trump found that imported robotics and machinery pose national security risks but imposed no immediate tariffs, instead ordering officials to negotiate with foreign governments. He directed the agencies to report back in 180 days and said he could still impose tariffs later.
1. Talks instead of tariffs
Trump directed the Commerce Department and the U.S. Trade Representative to negotiate agreements with trading partners over imports of robotics and industrial machinery. The agencies must report on the talks in 180 days, and Trump said he could impose tariffs later if negotiations fall short.
2. Scope of the probe
The more than year-long probe covered robotics and industrial machinery, including machine tools, autoclaves, industrial ovens, and laser- and water-cutting equipment. The Commerce Department said the United States relies on foreign imports for most types of robotics and industrial machinery. In July, the Federal Communications Commission barred imports of new models of Chinese robots and power inverters, while allowing existing models of humanoid and quadruped robots to be imported.
