US Slaps 100% Tariffs on Drones to Counter Chinese Dominance
The duties target Chinese-made models and other imports, with smaller drones facing 25% levies and some component tariffs delayed until 2027.
- On Thursday, September 3, 2026, the Trump administration imposed tariffs of up to 100% on imported drones, continuing its campaign to thwart the Chinese drone industry and promote domestic manufacturing.
- Trump announced the levies in August after a Commerce Department investigation deemed reliance on foreign drones a "national security threat," aiming to reduce U.S. dependence on Chinese technology.
- A 100% tariff applies to drones weighing more than 24.9 kg or using thermal imaging, while smaller models face 25%, targeting Shenzhen-based DJI, which manufactures more than 70% of global commercial drones.
- Scott Mlakar, chief of the Lake County Drone Unit, criticized the tariffs as "financially onerous," claiming they represent "lobbying by U.S. manufacturers to eliminate foreign competition" rather than genuine security measures.
- The Federal Communications Commission has proposed reclassifying thermal drones as "military grade," while China expressed opposition to the tariffs and duties on non-sensitive components take effect on February 9, 2027.
13 Articles
13 Articles
New US tariffs on drones and some of their components went into effect on Monday, with rates of up to 100%, as part of Washington's efforts to reduce its dependence on Chinese suppliers. US President Donald Trump signed the order imposing the tariffs in August, citing national security concerns and a goal of strengthening US supply chains. Drones weighing more than 25 kilograms, those with thermal imaging cameras and automatic landing and rechar…
The Straits Times
New US tariffs on drones take effect
Washington is pushing to lower its import reliance in an industry that China dominates. Read more at straitstimes.com.
In doing so, Donald Trump hopes to "encourage production" at home and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. China, which dominates the market, protested.
US imposes 100% drone tariffs to curb China reliance
New United States tariffs of up to 100 percent took effect on Thursday. These duties target drones and specific components, aiming to reduce import reliance. Larger drones and those with thermal imaging face the highest 100-percent tariff rate. Smaller drones and some components will also face duties, with some delayed. China has expressed strong opposition to these new United States trade measures.
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