FCC Bans New Chinese Robots and Power Inverters

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced on July 28, 2026, a ban on the import and sale of new foreign-produced advanced robotic devices and connected power inverters. The measure, part of the Trump administration's AI Action Plan, adds these categories to the FCC's Covered List to protect the U.S. artificial intelligence supply chain and electric grid from cyberattacks, data theft, and espionage. The ban specifically targets "advanced robotic devices," including humanoid and quadruped robots, as well as consumer products like robot vacuums and lawnmowers weighing over 4.4 pounds with network connectivity.

U.S. officials highlighted specific vulnerabilities, including documented backdoors in hardware from Unitree Robotics and undocumented communication devices in solar inverters. The restrictions primarily impact Chinese firms, which control approximately 85% of the global humanoid robot market, including companies such as Huawei and Sungrow Power Supply. While the ban blocks new models from receiving equipment authorization, it does not affect devices already acquired by consumers. Manufacturers may apply for temporary waivers through the Department of Defense or Department of Homeland Security if they shift at least 65% of component production to the United States.

The Government of China condemned the move as "market distortion and unilateral bullying," with the Ministry of Commerce warning it will "resolutely retaliate" to protect its interests. The escalation occurs ahead of a scheduled September summit between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping. Domestically, U.S. Representative John Moolenaar supported the action as a means to strengthen the domestic robotics industry and reshore critical manufacturing.