US to impose tariffs on drone imports

U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday signed a proclamation to impose tariffs ranging from 10 percent to 100 percent on imported drones and their components, citing national security concerns, reported Xinhua.

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

A 25 percent tariff will be imposed on drones smaller in size and "lack certain capabilities that particularly implicate national security," while tariffs of 15 percent or 10 percent 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 U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to establish an onshoring program for companies making new investments in manufacturing drones and components.