President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation to impose tariffs on imports of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and their components, the White House said, citing concerns that the United States is too dependent on foreign sources for drones and certain parts.
The proclamation outlines a tiered structure of ad valorem duties tied to the size and capabilities of the equipment. For drones described as a particular size or possessing capabilities deemed especially sensitive for national security, a 100% ad valorem tariff will be applied. A lower but still substantial 25% tariff will be imposed on drones classified as smaller in size.
In addition to size- and capability-based duties, the proclamation specifies country- or region-based tariff rates for drones and components. Products originating from the European Union, Japan, Liechtenstein, South Korea, Switzerland, and Taiwan will face a 15% tariff, while imports from the United Kingdom will carry a 10% ad valorem duty, the White House said.
Administration findings cited
The proclamation references an investigation by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick into the impact of UAS imports. The Secretary concluded that import penetration from foreign producers of UAS is substantial and that the United States relies too heavily on foreign sources for UAS and UAS components. According to the document, Lutnick determined that drones and certain components from specific foreign entities "pose security and safety risks" and that the domestic industry does not manufacture sufficient quantities to meet security requirements.
Timing and exceptions
The White House said the tariffs will take effect 21 days after the signing of the proclamation for the measures aimed at sensitive categories. For drone components that are not classified as particularly sensitive, the tariffs will become effective 180 days after signing. The proclamation also provides for a separate timeline tied to Pentagon and Federal Communications Commission processes: for products the Pentagon has approved for an exemption from the FCC's "Covered List" within 20 days of signing, the tariffs will take effect 180 days after the proclamation is signed.
Tariffs have been a prominent element of the President's trade and foreign policy agenda. The White House noted that this action follows the administration's broader use of duties despite legal challenges and criticism from some analysts.