US Blocks New Chinese Humanoid Robot Imports Over Security Concerns

Sun Sep 06 2026 06:26:28 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The U.S. has halted the import of newly produced Chinese humanoid robots and power inverters, citing possible national‑security risks – a move Beijing calls an unjustified trade measure.

In a decisive action on Tuesday, the Trump administration announced that any new foreign‑made humanoid or quadruped robots will be barred from the United States. The ban also extends to power inverters used in data centres and solar panels, with the FCC citing risks of remote control, surveillance, and cyber‑attacks. China’s embassy in Washington strongly rebuked the decision and vowed to counter any steps that threaten its interests. The broader context reflects long‑standing U.S. tensions over trade, AI, and strategic technology leadership.

US Blocks New Chinese Humanoid Robot Imports Over Security Concerns

Washington announced today that any newly manufactured humanoid or four‑legged robots from foreign producers will be prohibited from entering the United States. The ban also covers power inverters that are used in data‑centre and solar‑panel installations, the FCC said they could be exploited by foreign actors to disable equipment, steal data or enable surveillance.

The order was issued after the FCC, led by Chairman Brendan Carr, reviewed the high likelihood of “malign actors” using such devices to gain an advantage in intelligence or military operations. Existing models that had previously received FCC approval remain eligible for sale, but new imports are now blocked. The agency’s Covered List, which registers items considered a threat to national security, has been expanded to include these technologies.

China’s embassy in Washington condemned the ban as an example of the United States politicising trade and imposing sanctions on soft power. Beijing said it will take “all necessary measures” to protect its interests and urged global cooperation to develop AI for the public good. The Chinese side also called on the U.S. to abandon what it described as a hegemonic mindset and stop smearing Chinese companies.

The decision comes amidst a broader U.S. crackdown on Chinese technology. High tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, restrictions on cutting‑edge U.S. semiconductors, and potential sanctions on Chinese AI firms reflect America’s effort to curb Beijing’s rise in AI and robotics. The latest ban on importation of humanoid robots is viewed by many analysts as a move to preserve U.S. leadership in AI while preventing possible future surveillance capabilities in the hands of foreign rivals.

Manufacturers such as Unitree, UBTech and AgiBot have already begun marketing their robots in the United States, offering services for factories and homes. The FCC’s restriction is likely to force a shift toward domestically produced solutions and could slow the pace at which robotics technology spreads into everyday American life.