Trump says imported robotics pose national security risks but does not impose tariffs – The Straits Times

Trump says imported robotics pose national security risks but does not impose tariffs  The Straits Times

Instead, he ordered officials to hold talks with foreign governments on import levels. Read more at straitstimes.com. US President Donald Trump directed the agencies to report back in 180 days on the status of the talks with trading partners. WASHINGTON – US President Donald Trump found on Oct 28 that imported robotics and machinery pose national security risks but did not impose any immediate tariffs, instead ordering officials to hold talks with foreign governments on import levels. The decision spares US manufacturers, which rely on foreign imports for most types of robotics and industrial machinery, from immediate new tariffs, but leaves open the threat of duties if talks with trading partners fall short.

Following a more than year-long probe, Trump directed the US Commerce Department and US Trade Representative to jointly negotiate agreements with trading partners to address concerns about imported robotics and industrial machinery, and said he could still impose tariffs at a later date. He directed the agencies to report back in 180 days on the status of the talks with trading partners. Trump in September 2025 opened the probe to review imported robotics and industrial machinery like programmable computer-controlled mechanical systems and industrial stamping and pressing machines. The robotics probe covered machine tools for cutting, welding, and handling workpieces, autoclaves and industrial ovens. The US Federal Communications