On 28 July local time, the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) updated its import Covered List to include foreign-produced advanced robots and grid-connected power inverters, covering humanoid and quadruped robots. The rules took effect immediately, and new models can no longer obtain the FCC certification needed to enter the US market. For models already on sale, regulators have not applied retroactive measures but reserve the right to withdraw authorisations later.

Key points: product scope

According to the FCC policy document, the controls target connected smart devices on the grounds of supply chain and cybersecurity risk. The document does not name specific countries or companies. Globally, however, several Chinese manufacturers already sell humanoid and quadruped robots overseas. Notably, the US side plans to create an exemption channel for similar products from certain other countries.

Security boundary remains contested

From a certification perspective, FCC certification mainly concerns electromagnetic compatibility and RF compliance. Linking security review to equipment access means the FCC's remit is extending from technical compliance towards supply chain security assessment. Earlier this year, US agencies conducted teardown testing of Chinese-made power equipment and found no evidence of malicious code. In the absence of clear technical evidence, treating potential risk as a precondition for market access creates new uncertainty for both certification bodies and manufacturers.

Compliance advice

The impact on exporters has two dimensions. First, the route to market for new products to the US is temporarily closed, and companies already active there need to re-assess launch timing. Second, the certification status of existing products faces uncertainty, since the regulator reserves the right to withdraw authorisations, meaning certified products could be reviewed retrospectively.

Companies are advised to follow the FCC's implementing details closely, review the FCC certification status of current and in-development products, and prepare contingency plans for supply chain adjustment and market layout. As a third-party testing and certification body, we will continue to track policy developments and provide technical support on compliant routes.