U.S. Bans New Foreign-Made Robots, Power Inverters Over National Security Concerns

U.S. importers and robotics manufacturers lose access to new Chinese robot and power inverter models, effective immediately. Previously authorized products (including Unitree and AGIBOT models) may remain in commerce, but future Chinese models require Department of Defense or Homeland Security approval by January 1, 2028. The restriction affects a market where China supplies approximately 85% of global humanoid robot shipments (~15,000 units worldwide in 2025). U.S. companies sourcing Chinese components face cost pressures: Tesla's Optimus robot sources ~70% of core components from China; removal would triple production costs. China's response threatens reciprocal trade actions and supply chain disruption. Analysts expect limited near-term impact on China's robot development due to strong domestic supply chains and alternative export markets, but U.S.-China technology collaborations (e.g., Nvidia's use of Unitree chassis) may be disrupted.