US to impose tariffs on drone imports

US President Donald Trump on Thursday signed a proclamation to impose tariffs ranging from 10% to 100% on imported drones and their components, citing national security concerns.

The United States will impose a 100% ad valorem tariff on drones with a maximum takeoff weight exceeding 25 kilograms, thermal imaging capabilities or other specified characteristics. Docking stations and certain critical components of these drones are also subject to the 100% tariff, the White House said in a statement.

A 25% tariff will be imposed on drones smaller in size and "lack certain capabilities that particularly implicate national security," while tariffs of 15% or 10% will apply to drones and components from certain countries and regions, it said.

The tariffs will take effect 21 days after the proclamation was signed, while those on less-sensitive drone components will take effect in 180 days.

For products the Pentagon has approved for exemption from the Federal Communications Commission's "Covered List" within 20 days of signing, the tariffs will take effect 180 days after signing, the White House said.

The proclamation also authorizes US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to establish an onshoring program for companies making new investments in manufacturing drones and components.