Washington: The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced a ban on new Chinese-made humanoid robots and other advanced robotic devices, citing concerns that the technology could threaten national security.
The restrictions, unveiled, are part of the Trump administration’s broader efforts to reduce reliance on Chinese technology and strengthen domestic supply chains.
According to the FCC, the ban covers advanced robotic devices, including humanoid robots and animal-like quadrupeds. The agency warned that such machines can collect sensitive data that could potentially be exploited by hostile actors for surveillance, intelligence gathering or even remote control of the devices.
NEW
The FCC has now added two new categories of devices to our Covered List, which bans new versions from import or sale in America.
1. Advanced robotic devices, such as humanoids and quadrupeds produced in foreign countries.
2. Power inverters produced in foreign countries.… pic.twitter.com/q8YCIOHBzZ
— Brendan Carr (@BrendanCarrFCC) July 28, 2026
The FCC has also prohibited new connected power inverters, which are used to link renewable energy systems and batteries to electricity grids and support data centre infrastructure.
An administration official told that the move aligns with President Donald Trump’s goal of ensuring the US has secure and independent supply chains for critical and emerging technologies. The official added that the administration views economic security as an essential part of national security and is continuing efforts to rebuild domestic manufacturing.
The restrictions apply only to robot and inverter models that have not yet entered the US market. However, the FCC retains the authority to revoke approvals for products that have already been authorised for sale if necessary.
Industry analysts expect AI-powered humanoid robots to become increasingly common in both consumer and industrial applications, while demand for power inverters is set to rise alongside the rapid expansion of US data centres.
China remains the world’s leading manufacturer of power inverters, with companies such as Sungrow Power Supply and Huawei dominating the sector. Both firms have already faced extensive US sanctions.
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