US to impose 100% tariff on sensitive drone imports
Photo: REUTERS
US President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that his administration will levy tariffs on imported drones and their components, citing an over-reliance on foreign manufacturers.
White House said the United States has become “too reliant” on international sources for this technology. A new proclamation signed by Trump introduces a 100 percent ad valorem tariff on drones of specific sizes or those possessing capabilities deemed highly sensitive for national security. The administration will impose a 25 percent tariff on smaller drones.
The new trade measures also target key US allies, as the White House added that a 15 percent tariff will apply to drones and parts from the European Union, Japan, Liechtenstein, South Korea, Switzerland, and Taiwan.
Meanwhile, equipment arriving from the UK will face a 10 percent ad valorem tariff. Although Trump has encountered legal challenges and pushback from various analysts, he continues to utilize tariffs as a primary pillar of his foreign and trade policies.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick conducted an investigation into the impact of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) imports.
Trump said, “The Secretary found that import penetration from foreign producers of UAS is substantial and that the United States is too reliant on foreign sources of UAS and UAS components.”
Lutnick concluded that drone parts from certain foreign entities “pose security and safety risks” and noted that the domestic US industry currently fails to produce enough volume to satisfy security needs.
These new tariffs will officially go into effect in 21 days. However, the White House clarified that for drone components not classified as particularly sensitive, the charges will start 180 days after the signing.
Moreover, for products the Pentagon approves for an exemption from the Federal Communications Commission’s “Covered List” within 20 days of the signing, the tariffs will also take effect after 180 days.
Source: Reuters (adapted)
