The White House announces tariffs on imported drones and components

New York, August 13 (Xinhua) -- The White House announced on the 13th that President Trump signed a proclamation imposing ad valorem tariffs ranging from 10% to 100% on imported drones and components in response to national security threats.

According to the announcement, the United States will impose a 100% ad valorem tariff on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with a maximum takeoff weight exceeding 25 kilograms, thermal imaging capabilities, or other conditions, including the entire UAV, docking stations, and some key components. Drones and other components that are smaller in size or have less impact on national security will be subject to a 25% ad valorem tariff. The announcement also specifically sets import tariff rates of 15% or 10% for drones and their components from multiple countries or regions.

The announcement also authorizes the US Secretary of Commerce to establish a new investment mechanism for the return of drone and component manufacturing to the United States.

According to the announcement, the new tariff measures will take effect on September 3rd. For non particularly sensitive drone components or products and components exempted by the US Department of Defense, the new tariff measures will take effect on February 9, 2027.

Trump stated in the announcement that this decision is based on a recent investigation report by the US Department of Commerce into the impact of imported drones and their components on US national security under Section 232 of the 1962 Trade Expansion Act.