Trump imposes up to 100% tariff on drones, components to boost US manufacturing

US President Donald J. Trump has signed a proclamation imposing tariffs of up to 100% on imported drones and certain drone components, citing national security risks and vulnerabilities arising from foreign dependence on critical Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) components.

"The Proclamation imposes a 100% ad valorem tariff on drones of a certain size or with certain capabilities that are particularly sensitive for national security purposes," the White House said. The tariff covers drones with a maximum takeoff weight of more than 25 kg, drones with thermal imaging capabilities, their docking stations and certain critical components.

Tariffs vary by drone size, technology

The proclamation imposes a 25% ad valorem tariff on certain smaller drones that lack capabilities considered particularly sensitive to national security, as well as other drone components.

For selected trading partners, the tariff rates will be lower. Drones and components from the European Union, Japan, Liechtenstein, Republic of Korea, Switzerland and Taiwan will attract a 15% tariff, while those from the UK will face a 10% tariff, provided "substantially all hardware, software, and technology originates from within these countries and the United States."

"The tariffs will take effect 21 days after signing," the White House said. Tariffs on non-sensitive drone components will take effect after 180 days. Products and components approved by the Department of War for exemption from the Federal Communications Commission's Covered List within 20 days of signing will also face tariffs after 180 days.

US seeks to expand domestic drone manufacturing

The proclamation authorises the Commerce Secretary to establish an onshoring programme for companies making new investments in US drone and component manufacturing.

"Drones are a key technology in modern armed conflict and critical for present and future U.S. military operations," the White House said, adding that commercial and military drones rely on foreign sources for critical UAS components, creating "significant risks to U.S. national security and creates cybersecurity vulnerabilities."

The administration said "U.S. drone production needs to be expanded rapidly" to strengthen national and economic security and support jobs in the country's defence and defence-adjacent industrial base.

The latest move builds on Trump's broader use of Section 232 tariffs to protect industries considered critical to US national security. The White House said the administration has imposed or strengthened tariffs on steel, aluminium, copper, trucks, automobiles, timber, lumber and pharmaceuticals since Trump's return to office..