US Bans Imports of New Chinese Humanoid Robots and Robot Dogs

WASHINGTON: The United States has imposed restrictions on imports of new humanoid robots, robot dogs and certain power inverters manufactured in China and other foreign countries, citing national and cybersecurity concerns.

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has added the products to its “Covered List”, making it more difficult for new foreign-made advanced robots and related power inverters to receive approval for import and sale in the US market.

US officials have warned that networking and communication capabilities built into advanced robots could potentially be exploited for espionage, access to sensitive information or cyberattacks. Power inverters have also raised security concerns because they are widely used in electricity grids, solar projects and other critical infrastructure.

The US government said the move is aimed at securing supply chains for critical and emerging technologies and protecting national security from potential risks. Although the restrictions cover certain foreign-made products more broadly, Chinese technology companies are expected to face the biggest impact.

According to reports, the new restrictions will not immediately affect robots and other equipment that have already been approved for sale or are already being used in the United States. Some foreign companies may also be able to market their products in the US if they obtain approval under specific conditions.

The move comes as competition between Washington and Beijing intensifies over artificial intelligence, robotics and other advanced technologies. China is already one of the world’s leading countries in industrial robot installations and humanoid robot development.

US officials have previously raised concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities associated with some Chinese-made robots. Meanwhile, some US technology and robotics industry groups have welcomed the restrictions, arguing that they could help protect the domestic robotics industry and encourage the development of local technologies.