Will TP-Link really make routers in the US? Here’s what it told us

TP-Link, a major manufacturer of Wi-Fi routers, is facing challenges in the US market due to a ban on foreign routers imposed by President Donald Trump. The company has launched its first Wi-Fi 8 routers but cannot distribute them in the US because of this ban. Despite competitors like Netgear and Asus having their routers made in Asia, TP-Link has struggled to obtain a waiver for their routers.

However, TP-Link is willing to invest nearly $1 billion to manufacture routers in the United States, creating hundreds of jobs for American workers, as stated in a letter to the FCC. The company has announced a letter of intent with US contract manufacturer Key Tronic to begin domestic assembly of its Wi-Fi 8 routers in Corinth, Mississippi.

If the investment materializes, TP-Link could begin production of routers as early as next year. The company is working towards obtaining a conditional approval from the FCC, which is required for the waiver to be granted. The FCC has not yet provided any information about its decision on the waiver. TP-Link insists that the waiver is not solely about security, as other manufacturers have also faced security vulnerabilities and Chinese hack claims.

The company has provided assurances about its transparency and commitment to quality and affordability. However, the FCC and state governments have raised concerns about TP-Link's alleged ties to China, and it remains unclear whether the company will be able to secure the waiver and proceed with its planned manufacturing investment.