US Bans Chinese Humanoid Robot Imports, Beijing Threatens 'Resolute Retaliation'

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has prohibited the import of new foreign-made humanoid and quadruped robots, as well as connected power inverters, citing national security and cybersecurity risks. The decision, announced on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, is part of a broader U.S. effort to secure critical supply chains and boost domestic manufacturing.

FCC officials stated that advanced robotic devices collect data that could be exploited by malicious actors to surveil Americans, enhance foreign intelligence capabilities, or remotely commandeer the robots. While the FCC claims the measures are broadly applicable, they are widely perceived as targeting China, which holds an estimated 85% share of the global humanoid robot market. The ban specifically applies to new models not yet authorized for sale in the U.S., rather than existing products already on the market.

China's Commerce Ministry immediately denounced the bans, accusing the U.S. of “market distortion and unilateral bullying behavior.” The ministry asserted that the U.S. is overstretching the concept of national security to suppress Chinese companies and disregard the interests of both Chinese and American industries. Beijing demanded that the U.S. immediately withdraw its “erroneous actions,” threatening “resolute retaliation” and “necessary measures” to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies if the U.S. persists.

This development is expected to further strain already tense U.S.-China technology and trade relations. Shares of Hong Kong-listed UBTech (UBTRF), a Chinese humanoid robot manufacturer, briefly dropped more than 6% in Thursday morning trading. Analysts suggest that while the immediate impact on Chinese companies might be limited, as many have not yet fully penetrated the U.S. market, the long-term effect could be a slowdown in U.S. humanoid robot innovation by cutting off startups and researchers from access to low-cost Chinese platforms.

The U.S. action is consistent with a broader strategy to reduce reliance on Chinese technology in sectors linked to artificial intelligence, energy, and data centers. Previous restrictions have targeted products such as drones and internet routers. Morgan Stanley analysts project the humanoid robot market could reach $5 trillion by 2050, and this ban could give American firms a significant competitive edge. However, given China's leading position in the global power inverter market, restrictions in this area could have a more immediate impact on U.S. renewable energy and data center infrastructure.

Market experts believe this escalation could further test bilateral relations ahead of a planned summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in September. Collaborations between U.S. tech giants like Nvidia and Chinese robot manufacturers, such as Unitree, could also be affected by these restrictions. The forthcoming retaliatory measures from China and subsequent U.S. responses will be crucial in shaping global technology and trade dynamics.