Trump Signs 100% Tariff on Large Chinese Drones, 25% on Smaller Models

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order imposing a 100% tariff on large drones weighing over 25 kilograms, those equipped with thermal cameras, and drone docking stations imported primarily from China. Smaller drones will face a 25% tariff. The measures are justified on national security grounds.

Reduced tariff rates will apply to allied countries: 15% for the European Union, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, and Liechtenstein; and 10% for the United Kingdom. The new tariffs on complete drone systems will take effect 21 days after signing, while component-level tariffs will follow 180 days later.

The White House framed the decision as part of a broader effort to reduce US dependence on Chinese-manufactured unmanned aerial systems, which have increasingly been used in both military and civilian applications. The drone tariff builds on a growing list of technology import restrictions targeting China.