The US is trying to kick foreign robots out, but the local supply chain might not be there yet

The FCC has introduced new regulations targeting foreign-made robots, aiming to limit their presence in the U.S. market. Advanced robotic devices, including humanoids, quadrupeds, and robot vacuums, must now be primarily built in the U.S. or source at least 65% of their component value domestically. This policy, previously used to block Chinese companies like Huawei and ZTE, doesn't target any specific country but is widely perceived as aimed at reducing Chinese imports.

Existing products on sale are not affected, and research and development robots remain exempt. However, manufacturers struggle to meet the 65% local sourcing threshold, with some resorting to importing parts from China. While some companies welcome the rule, it complicates the sourcing process in the short term. China's dominance in robotics manufacturing stems from decades of state investment and a deep engineering workforce, giving Chinese-made robots a significant advantage in the global market.