Zollstreit: USA verhängen hohe Zölle auf Drohnen - China im Fokus
Neue US-Zölle von bis zu 100 Prozent auf importierte Drohnen dürften vor allem auf China zielen. Vor dem Treffen von Donald Trump und Xi Jinping gewinnt deren Handelsstreit wieder an Schärfe.
The United States has imposed new tariffs ranging from 25 to 100 percent on foreign-made drones, with particular focus on Chinese manufacturers dominating the US market. According to a White House statement, the 100 percent tariff applies to drones with a maximum takeoff weight of more than 25 kilograms and those equipped with thermal imaging cameras.
Smaller drones, weighing up to 25 kilograms, face a 25 percent duty. The tariffs are set to take effect primarily on September 3rd, with some exceptions for several US allies.
The US government justifies the move as a matter of national security, citing over-reliance on foreign drones and components. President Trump seeks to foster the development of a domestic drone industry. Discussions between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are reportedly slated for September. The trade dispute has been ongoing for years, with Washington targeting Chinese drone technology since the end of 2025.
At that point, foreign manufacturers will no longer be granted licenses for new models, though existing drones may still be sold.
The latest round of tensions began with additional restrictions imposed by the US on Chinese goods, placement of more companies on an import blacklist, and limitations on the import of certain Chinese technology products. China responded with its own measures.
Written by urgent.news from Handelsblatt's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
