WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced a ban on new Chinese-made humanoid robots and other advanced robotic devices, citing what it described as “unacceptable risks” to national security.
The move is the latest in a series of measures by the Trump administration aimed at restricting Chinese technology in the United States while promoting secure domestic supply chains for critical technologies.
FCC Cites Security Risks
In its announcement on Tuesday, the FCC said advanced robotic devices—including humanoid robots and animal-like quadruped robots—could pose significant security threats because of the large volumes of data they collect.
According to the commission, such data could be exploited by hostile actors for surveillance, espionage or remote interference.
“Advanced robotic devices collect data that could be leveraged by malign actors to surveil Americans, enhance the capabilities of foreign intelligence services, or to remotely commandeer the robots,” FCC officials said.
The agency concluded that the technology presents “unacceptable risks” to US national security.
Power Inverters Also Restricted
Alongside the robotics ban, the FCC also prohibited new connected power inverters used to connect renewable energy systems, batteries and data centre equipment to electricity grids.
The restrictions form part of broader efforts to safeguard critical infrastructure and reduce reliance on foreign technology in sectors considered strategically important.
Focus on Domestic Manufacturing
A senior administration official said the decision aligns with President Donald Trump’s policy of strengthening domestic manufacturing and securing supply chains for emerging technologies.
“The President has made clear that the United States must have independent and secure supply chains for critical and emerging technologies like robotic devices and power inverters,” the official said.
The official added that economic resilience is central to national security and that the administration is pursuing policies aimed at reindustrialising the United States.
Existing Products Not Immediately Affected
The FCC said the restrictions apply only to robot and inverter models that have not yet been authorised for sale in the United States.
However, the commission noted that it retains the authority to revoke existing approvals for products already on the US market if necessary.
Industry analysts expect AI-powered humanoid robots to become increasingly common in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare and consumer applications over the coming years.
Meanwhile, demand for power inverters is expected to grow alongside the rapid expansion of renewable energy and large-scale data centres.
China remains the world’s largest manufacturer of power inverters, with companies including Sungrow Power Supply and Huawei dominating the global market. Huawei already faces extensive US sanctions.
