US Imposes 100 Percent Tariffs on Heavy and Sensitive Drones
The United States has significantly escalated restrictions on foreign-made drones with a new round of steep tariffs targeting both complete aircraft and components.
Under the new presidential action, drones equipped with thermal cameras and any unmanned aircraft weighing more than 25 kilograms (approximately 57 pounds) face import tariffs of 100 percent. The measures also extend to all parts for aircraft in the over-25kg category.
The move builds on earlier restrictions that effectively barred future foreign drone imports unless manufacturers comply with certain requirements. Those earlier actions also targeted other consumer electronics including routers, robots, and robotic vacuums.
Lighter consumer drones, such as sub-250-gram models commonly used by hobbyists, face lower tariff rates under the new framework.
The administration cited national security concerns as justification for the expanded restrictions, particularly targeting drones deemed "particularly sensitive."