Trump orders talks on robotics, machinery imports; no new tariffs for now

FTZ News: President Trump has directed U.S. officials to negotiate with trading partners over imports of robotics and industrial machinery, leaving open the possibility of tariffs or other restrictions later, according to a proclamation published Monday.

The document, signed Oct. 28 and appearing in the Federal Register on Nov. 2, follows a Commerce Department investigation under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. The commerce secretary found that these products and their components are being imported in such quantities and under such circumstances as to threaten national security. The president agreed with that finding.

The proclamation directs the commerce secretary and the U.S. trade representative to pursue or continue negotiations aimed at adjusting the imports. They have 180 days to report back on progress. Depending on the status or outcome of those negotiations, the president may consider other measures, including imposing or modifying tariffs, duties, quotas and fees. He may also establish a program to incentivize new investment in U.S. production of robotics, industrial machinery and related components.

The investigation began in September 2025. Commerce concluded that nearly all modern defense systems and critical infrastructure rely on robotics or industrial machinery, that U.S. producers do not make enough to meet demand, and that foreign-sourced equipment can create cybersecurity risks.

The approach differs from other recent Section 232 actions. The administration has imposed tariffs on products including polysilicon, copper, and certain unmanned aircraft systems. Here, it is starting with negotiations.

Importers of robots, machine tools, and related parts face no immediate change in duty rates. The progress report is due within 180 days of Oct. 28, or by late April 2027./.