US Bans Chinese Humanoids

Picture Credit: Nikkei Asia

The United States has moved to block imports of new Chinese-made humanoid and quadruped robots, marking another major escalation in the technology race between Washington and Beijing. The Trump administration announced the ban this week, citing national security concerns over internet-connected robots that officials say could expose critical infrastructure to cyber threats or collect sensitive data. The restrictions also extend to power converters used in renewable energy systems, signalling a broader effort to reduce America's dependence on Chinese technology.

The decision comes at a time when China has emerged as the world's dominant force in humanoid robotics. Chinese manufacturers accounted for around 90% of global humanoid robot shipments last year, supported by more than 140 robotics companies and a rapidly expanding domestic supply chain. According to legal research platform LexisNexis, six of the world's top ten humanoid robotics startups by patent strength are Chinese, highlighting how quickly the country has built an edge in AI-powered hardware.

US officials argue the ban is necessary because connected robots could potentially be used for surveillance, data collection or cyberattacks. Beijing has strongly rejected those claims, accusing Washington of using national security as a tool to suppress Chinese companies and protect domestic industries. The move follows similar US restrictions on Chinese drones, electric vehicles and advanced semiconductor technology, underscoring the widening economic and technological decoupling between the world's two largest economies.

While the restrictions could temporarily reduce Chinese robot sales in the United States, analysts believe the long-term impact may be limited. Many Chinese firms had already begun shifting their focus toward Europe and other international markets amid rising geopolitical tensions. The ban could, however, provide a boost to American robotics companies such as Tesla, Figure AI and Boston Dynamics, which are racing to scale up production and compete in what is expected to become one of the fastest-growing technology sectors of the next decade.

For Sri Lanka, the development highlights how global supply chains are increasingly being shaped by geopolitics rather than economics alone. As countries compete to secure leadership in artificial intelligence, robotics and advanced manufacturing, smaller economies will need to carefully position themselves within regional technology ecosystems. The growing US-China technology divide is likely to influence future investment flows, manufacturing partnerships and digital infrastructure across Asia, making these policy decisions increasingly relevant well beyond the two superpowers.