FCC Bans Importation of Advanced Robotics, Complicating Automation Efforts

This includes humanoids, quadrupeds, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and other wheeled or tracked ground platforms. The designation prevents newly covered products from receiving FCC equipment authorization, effectively barring their importation, marketing, or sale in the United States unless they receive a Conditional Approval from.

One of the most notable changes is the definition of “foreign produced.” Rather than relying on where a product is designed or who manufactures it, the new rule adopts the Buy American Act’s “domestic end product” standard. To avoid classification as covered equipment, a.

What Happened

The action follows similar category-wide restrictions imposed on foreign-produced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), UAS critical components, consumer-grade routers, and power inverters, reflecting the federal government’s expanding focus on supply chain security for connected technologies. Unlike previous Covered List actions, the robotics designation.

• By Dan Neumann Caption: Photo by Timon on Adobe Stock August 12, 2026Effective July 28, 2026, the FCC’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau added advanced robotics to the Covered List under the Secure.

• The threshold is currently at 65% through 2028 and is increasing to 75% in 2029.

• Companies seeking relief must apply directly to the Department of War for a Conditional Approval by January 1, 2028.

Key Details

The process requires detailed disclosures regarding supply chains, ownership, sourcing, and planned domestic manufacturing investments.

What Reports Say

Coverage of the story so far points to:

• Continued reporting by American Composites Manufacturers Association as more details emerge