Trump administration imposes tariffs on drone imports

U.S. President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on Thursday to impose new tariffs on drones and their components, including a 15 percent levy on imports from South Korea, Japan, and other economies. The White House stated the move is an effort to bolster national security.

Under the proclamation, a 100 percent tariff will be imposed on certain drones, including larger ones and those with thermal imaging capabilities, which are considered sensitive for national security purposes. A 25 percent tariff will apply to certain smaller drones that raise security concerns.

Imports from South Korea, Japan, the European Union, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, and Taiwan will face a 15 percent tariff, while a 10 percent duty will apply to those from Britain. The new tariffs are set to take effect at 12:01 a.m. on September 3, 2026, except for those on less-sensitive drone components, which will take effect at 12:01 a.m. on February 9, 2027.

President Trump announced the tariffs under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, a law that allows the president to adjust imports into the United States when he determines they threaten to impair national security.