Trump imposes up to 100% tariff on Chinese drones
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has announced tariffs of up to 100 per cent on imported drones and certain drone components, escalating Washington’s efforts to reduce dependence on Chinese technology and strengthen America’s domestic unmanned aircraft industry.
The White House said the new duties were introduced on national security grounds and would target specific unmanned aircraft systems considered particularly sensitive.
The measures cover larger unmanned aerial systems weighing more than 25 kilograms at take-off. Drones equipped with technologies considered important to national security, including thermal imaging systems and drone docking stations, will also face the additional tariffs.
Under the new policy, smaller drones will be subject to a 25pc tariff, while larger and more technologically sophisticated systems could face duties of up to 100pc. The structure means the final tariff will depend on a drone’s weight, size and capabilities.
The decision comes as the United States seeks to reduce its reliance on Chinese-made drones and strengthen domestic supply chains for critical technologies. Chinese manufacturers have long held a significant position in the global and US drone market, particularly in consumer and commercial unmanned aircraft.
The Trump administration argues that drones have become increasingly important to national security, surveillance and other sensitive operations. Officials therefore want to encourage greater production of drones and key components inside the United States.
The tariffs could have an immediate impact on the prices of some imported drones, potentially making Chinese-made models significantly more expensive for American buyers. Businesses that rely on drones for commercial, industrial or specialised operations could also face higher costs.
At the same time, Washington expects the policy to encourage US manufacturers to expand production and invest in domestic drone technology.
The move marks another step in the broader US strategy of limiting dependence on China in strategically important technologies while promoting American manufacturing and supply-chain security.
