Trump imposes up to 100% tariffs on foreign drones, sparing some U.S. allies

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday imposing import tariffs of up to 100% on foreign drones and drone components, the White House announced. The measures target drones with a maximum take-off weight exceeding 25 kilograms or those equipped with thermal imaging cameras, which will face a 100% tariff, while smaller models under 25 kilograms will be subject to a 25% duty.
Lower rates apply to imports from certain U.S. allies. Drones and components from the European Union, Japan, Liechtenstein, South Korea, Switzerland and Taiwan will be taxed at 15%, while those from Britain will incur a 10% tariff, provided they meet specific origin requirements for technology and parts. The tariffs are set to take effect 21 days after the order’s signing, with a 180-day delay for less sensitive drone components and those exempted by the U.S. Department of Defense within 20 days of the order’s issuance.
The White House justified the move on national security grounds, stating the U.S. is overly dependent on foreign suppliers for drones and components. A U.S. Commerce Department investigation led by Secretary Howard Lutnick concluded that certain foreign drones and parts pose security risks, while domestic production remains insufficient to meet security needs. The order aligns with existing restrictions: since late 2025, foreign manufacturers have been barred from obtaining U.S. certification for new drone models, though previously approved drones may still be sold.
The tariffs come amid escalating trade tensions with China, whose manufacturers, including DJI, dominate the global drone market. The White House also accused more than 40 countries—including Japan, Canada and Mexico—of helping China circumvent U.S. tariffs, costing Washington between $19 billion and $26 billion annually in lost revenue, according to trade adviser Peter Navarro. A White House report claimed tens of billions in annual revenue are lost to transshipments designed to evade the duties.
The measures follow a broader pattern of U.S. trade actions against Chinese technology. In recent months, Washington has imposed new tariffs on Chinese goods, added more companies to an import blacklist, and restricted certain Chinese tech products. Beijing has responded with its own countermeasures. The latest tariffs precede a planned September meeting between Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, as trade disputes between the two nations intensify.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese requested an exemption for his country during a 40-minute call with Trump, who agreed to consider the appeal. Canberra disputes the U.S. justification, which cites forced labor concerns. The tariffs will primarily enter into force on Sept. 3.
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