U.S. Targets Chinese Robotics Boom With New Restrictions on Humanoid Robots and Power Equipment

The race to dominate the future of robotics has taken a new turn as the United States moves to restrict certain foreign-made advanced technologies over national security concerns. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is banning new imports of some humanoid robots, four-legged robotic machines, and power inverters, with China emerging as the main target.

The move comes as China continues to strengthen its position as the world leader in robotics manufacturing. With Beijing rapidly expanding its technology sector and U.S. officials warning about possible cybersecurity risks, the latest restrictions could deepen tensions between the two countries ahead of a planned meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

FCC Expands Technology Restrictions Over Security Risks

The FCC said the new measures are designed to protect America’s critical supply chains and reduce possible risks linked to foreign-made technology. The restrictions apply to new versions of certain imported devices, including humanoid robots and quadruped robots, often called robotic dogs.

Humanoid robots have become one of the fastest-growing areas in technology, with companies developing machines that can walk, move objects and perform tasks traditionally done by people. Businesses are exploring their use in factories, warehouses, healthcare and other industries.

However, U.S. officials argue that advanced robotic systems could create security concerns if they are connected to foreign-controlled networks or used to collect sensitive information.

FCC Chair Brendan Carr said the action is part of a broader effort to secure American supply chains and reduce dependence on potentially vulnerable foreign technology.

The restrictions also include power inverters, devices that convert direct current electricity into alternating current electricity. These systems are widely used in renewable energy projects, data centers, and household technology, making them an important part of modern infrastructure.

China Dominates Global Humanoid Robot Market

The decision is expected to have the greatest impact on China, which has become the dominant force in humanoid robotics. Chinese companies currently hold an estimated 85% share of the global humanoid robot market.

Government investment, advanced manufacturing capabilities and a large domestic technology industry have supported China’s rapid progress. Companies have focused on lowering production costs and increasing output, allowing them to compete aggressively in global markets.

Analysts expect the humanoid robot industry to grow significantly in the coming years. Morgan Stanley has projected that China’s humanoid robotics market could reach $15 billion by 2030 as demand rises across manufacturing and other industries.

The scale of China’s robotics production highlights the challenge facing American companies. In 2025, about 15,000 humanoid robots were shipped worldwide. Chinese companies Unitree and AGIBOT each reportedly shipped more than 5,000 units, while U.S.-based companies such as Tesla and Figure AI shipped far fewer.

Analysts say the restrictions may give American robotics companies more room to compete. Still, they are unlikely to slow China’s overall development because of its massive manufacturing base and growing domestic market.

New Rules Could Affect Energy and Technology Industries

The FCC’s decision reaches beyond robotics by targeting power inverters, a technology that plays an important role in modern energy systems.

Power inverters are essential components in solar energy installations, allowing electricity generated from solar panels to be converted into a form that homes and businesses can use. They are also used in data centers and other critical systems.

Officials argue that foreign-made equipment connected to important infrastructure could create security vulnerabilities. A compromised device could potentially threaten energy networks or expose sensitive information.

The restrictions come as the United States works to strengthen domestic supply chains in industries considered strategically important. In recent years, Washington has increased scrutiny of foreign technology, particularly products connected to China.

Critics of these restrictions warn that limiting imports could increase costs for American companies and slow innovation by reducing access to affordable technology.

China Pushes Back Against U.S. Restrictions

China has strongly criticized the FCC’s decision, accusing the United States of using national security concerns to limit Chinese businesses.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Washington was expanding the definition of national security in a way that unfairly targets Chinese companies. She argued that protectionist measures could harm American consumers and businesses.

The latest restrictions are part of a larger technology dispute between the two countries. The United States has already imposed controls on Chinese drones, advanced semiconductor exports and other technologies considered important for national security.

Washington is also considering additional measures involving Chinese artificial intelligence models as competition in AI development continues to increase. Technology experts say the robotics dispute adds another potential conflict point between the world’s two largest economies.

Robotics Becomes the Next Front in U.S.-China Competition

The battle over humanoid robots reflects a larger struggle for control of future technologies. As artificial intelligence and robotics become more important in everyday life, governments are increasingly treating these industries as strategic assets.

The restrictions could also affect partnerships between American and Chinese technology companies. Nvidia, a major artificial intelligence company, recently introduced a humanoid robot design that uses the humanoid platform of Chinese robotics company Unitree.

The Pentagon has previously placed Unitree and other Chinese technology companies on a list of firms it says have connections to China’s military. Beijing has rejected those claims. Experts say the U.S. restrictions may protect American developers from future competition, but China’s strong manufacturing ecosystem means it will likely continue advancing in robotics.

The latest move shows that the competition between Washington and Beijing is no longer limited to trade or traditional technology. The future of robotics, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing has become a major part of the global power struggle.