US Expands Restrictions on Foreign Robots, Solar Power Inverters Over Security Concerns

The Trump administration has unveiled new restrictions on imports of advanced foreign-made robots and power inverters used in solar energy projects, citing concerns that such technologies could pose cybersecurity threats, facilitate espionage and jeopardise critical US infrastructure, according to Politico.

The measures, announced on Tuesday (local time) by the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC), broaden the administration's efforts to tighten oversight of foreign technology, following recent restrictions on imported drones and wireless networking equipment.

The new rules apply to advanced mobile robots, including humanoid and quadruped models, as well as power inverters that connect solar energy systems to the electricity grid.

The decision aligns with two key priorities of President Donald Trump's second administration—curbing China's growing influence in artificial intelligence (AI) and strengthening national security against technologies dominated by Chinese manufacturers.

"Following President Trump's leadership, the FCC will continue to do our part to secure America's critical supply chains and, with today's action, the FCC is acting in lock step with our national security agencies to do just that," FCC Chair Brendan Carr said in a statement.

According to Politico, an interagency review by the Trump administration concluded that the technologies could expose US supply chains to cyber vulnerabilities and create risks ranging from widespread power outages to surveillance of American citizens.

As part of the move, the FCC updated its list of electronic equipment and services deemed to pose national security risks. The designation blocks authorisation of the affected equipment and prevents newly designated devices from being introduced into the US market.

The FCC clarified that the restrictions will apply only to new models of advanced robots and power inverters. Equipment that has already received authorisation will remain unaffected, allowing consumers, businesses and retailers to continue using and selling existing approved products. The measures also do not impact the federal government's current procurement or use of such equipment.

The administration has also introduced a waiver process similar to those established for foreign-made drones and wireless routers. Manufacturers of advanced robots and power inverters can apply for conditional approval of new products through the FCC, with applications subject to review by the Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security.

In documents released alongside the announcement, the FCC outlined its assessment of the cybersecurity risks associated with advanced robotic systems.

"The networked capabilities of advanced robotic systems create extensive vulnerabilities and vectors for attacks that can manipulate the data and physical operation of the advanced robotic system," one FCC determination stated.

The agency further warned that reliance on foreign-manufactured advanced robotic devices presents "unacceptable supply chain and cybersecurity vulnerabilities," adding that such systems collect data that could be exploited by malicious actors to monitor Americans, strengthen foreign intelligence operations or remotely take control of the robots.