The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced a ban on humanoid robots from China, citing ‘unacceptable risks’ to the country’s national security. The move is part of the Trump administration’s efforts to keep Chinese technology out of the US.
The FCC defines the banned robots as ‘advanced robotic devices’, which include humanoids and animal-like quadrupeds. These devices are capable of collecting data that could be used by malicious actors to surveil Americans, enhance foreign intelligence services, or remotely commandeer the robots.
In addition to humanoid robots, the FCC has also barred connected power inverters, which enable renewable energy sources and batteries to connect to grids and datacenter equipment. The restrictions are aimed at promoting technology made in the US and encouraging firms to shift manufacturing to local production.
The Trump administration has emphasized the importance of independent and secure supply chains for critical and emerging technologies. An administration official stated that ‘economic security is national security’, and the administration is implementing a policy agenda to reindustrialize America.
China’s embassy in Washington has responded to the ban, urging the US to heed the voices of business communities in both countries and stop smearing Chinese companies. The embassy also warned that China will take necessary measures to protect its interests.
Analysts have forecast broad adoption of humanoid robots in consumer and industrial arenas, while the US’s explosive datacenter construction will depend on reliable sources of inverters. China is the world’s largest maker of inverters, led by companies such as Sungrow Power Supply and Huawei, which are already heavily sanctioned by the US.
