Trump signs order imposing up to 100% tariffs on drones, targeting China's 90% market grip

President Donald Trump signed a proclamation Thursday imposing tariffs of up to 100% on drones and drone components linked to national security, a move widely seen as targeting Chinese-made drones.

Trump said Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick had submitted a report under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act examining the national security implications of importing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and their parts and components, and that he had determined UAS were essential to US national and economic security.

"I agree with the secretary's judgment that UAS and components are being imported into the United States under circumstances that threaten to undermine US national security," Trump said, adding that the tariffs were necessary.

Trump said a 100% tariff would apply to drones of certain sizes or with capabilities deemed sensitive from a national security standpoint, as well as docking stations and certain key components. Drones with a maximum takeoff weight exceeding 25 kilograms and those equipped with thermal imaging are among the items covered.

Drones smaller than those subject to the 100% rate and lacking capabilities considered critical to national security, along with other drone parts, will face a 25% tariff.

The 100% tariff takes effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern time on Sept. 3. The 25% tariff is set to kick in 180 days later, on Feb. 9 next year, also at 12:01 a.m.

Drones and components imported from South Korea, Japan, the EU, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and Taiwan will be subject to a 15% tariff. Products imported from the United Kingdom will face a 10% rate.

"Drones are a critical technology in modern warfare and are important to current and future US military operations," the White House said in a fact sheet accompanying the proclamation. "President Trump's drone tariff program will support and create American jobs by protecting US national security, defense, and the defense industrial base."

The drone tariffs appear aimed squarely at China, which controls roughly 90% of the global consumer drone market and more than 70% of the commercial and enterprise segment.