Donald Trump imposes tariffs of up to 100% on imported drones

President Donald Trump announced tariffs of up to 100% on imports of unmanned drones and their components on Thursday, citing national security concerns, according to a White House statement. The tariffs, which include a 100% duty rate on drones weighing more than 25kg with national security capabilities like thermal imagers and docking stations, aim to reduce US reliance on imports in an industry dominated by China.

Smaller drones will face a 25% tariff. The White House stated that the tariffs will encourage domestic production and reduce reliance on foreign supply chains. The Chinese drone manufacturer DJI, established in 2006, has held over two-thirds of the global drone market in recent years. The majority of the new tariff duties are set to take effect on September 3.

Meanwhile, China responded to the US trade sanctions by imposing restrictions on drone exports to the US and blacklisting six companies, in retaliation for Washington's forced labor allegations and national security concerns. This move followed the US's imposition of additional tariffs on China and 59 other countries.