WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump announced Thursday tariffs of up to 100% on imported drones and drone components, citing national security concerns and the need to reduce U.S. reliance on foreign supply chains.
Under the new tariff policy, certain unmanned aircraft systems will face a 100% duty, including drones weighing more than 25 kilograms and those equipped with national security-related capabilities such as thermal imagers and docking stations, according to the White House.
Smaller drones will face a 25% tariff.
Most of the new duties will take effect Sept. 3.
The White House said the tariffs aim to encourage domestic production of drones and their components and reduce U.S. dependence on foreign suppliers.
China dominates the global commercial drone market, with Chinese manufacturer DJI accounting for more than two-thirds of the market in recent years, according to several studies.
The tariff announcement follows China’s decision last week to restrict drone exports to the United States and blacklist six U.S. companies. China cited trade sanctions imposed by Washington over forced labor and national security concerns.
The new U.S. tariffs also come days after Washington imposed additional tariffs on China and 59 other countries.
