US tariffs of up to 100% on drones take effect as Washington targets China‑dominated industry
The duties target Chinese-made models and other imports, with smaller drones facing 25% levies and some component tariffs delayed until 2027.
- On Thursday, September 3, 2026, the Trump administration imposed tariffs of up to 100% on imported drones, continuing its campaign to thwart the Chinese drone industry and promote domestic manufacturing.
- Trump announced the levies in August after a Commerce Department investigation deemed reliance on foreign drones a "national security threat," aiming to reduce U.S. dependence on Chinese technology.
- A 100% tariff applies to drones weighing more than 24.9 kg or using thermal imaging, while smaller models face 25%, targeting Shenzhen-based DJI, which manufactures more than 70% of global commercial drones.
- Scott Mlakar, chief of the Lake County Drone Unit, criticized the tariffs as "financially onerous," claiming they represent "lobbying by U.S. manufacturers to eliminate foreign competition" rather than genuine security measures.
- The Federal Communications Commission has proposed reclassifying thermal drones as "military grade," while China expressed opposition to the tariffs and duties on non-sensitive components take effect on February 9, 2027.
46 Articles
46 Articles
Trump slaps tariffs of up to 100% on drones, raising costs for US businesses
The Trump administration has imposed tariffs of up to 100% on drones in an effort to reduce the country’s dependence on Chinese drone technology and encourage domestic manufacturing, The New York Times reports. Drones weighing more than 55 pounds or equipped with thermal imaging face a 100% tariff, while smaller drones face a 25% tariff. […]
Ars Technica
Phil's Stock WorldTrump’s 100% tariff on drones will be disaster for the US, critics warn
Americans fear there are no cheap alternatives as tariffs suddenly hit drones.
Drones Are the Latest Target of US Tariffs
It just became more expensive to buy many of the drones on the current market. The Trump administration on Thursday slapped tariffs of up to 100% on foreign-made drones, part of a push to curb reliance on Chinese technology and boost US production, reports Yahoo Finance . The move will hit...
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