US Lawmakers Move to Restrict Chinese Robots Over Security Concerns

Washington DC (US), June 5, 2026, BNN Web Staff: A bipartisan group of US lawmakers has introduced legislation that could subject robots manufactured in China and other designated adversarial nations to national security reviews and potentially ban their sale in the United States.

The proposed Guarding the US Against Adversarial Robotics Dominance (GUARD) Act was introduced by Representative John Moolenaar, Chairman of the House Select Committee on China, along with Representatives Jay Obernolte and Jennifer McClellan.

According to lawmakers backing the bill, the growing use of foreign-made robotics systems in businesses, public spaces and critical infrastructure could create potential security vulnerabilities. Supporters of the legislation argue that advanced robots equipped with communication and data-processing capabilities may pose risks if exploited for espionage or other hostile activities.

Moolenaar also raised concerns about Chinese robotics companies allegedly benefiting from substantial state support, allowing them to offer products at highly competitive prices. He argued that such practices could weaken American manufacturers and increase reliance on foreign technology.

The legislation would require US national security agencies to review humanoid and quadruped robots produced by companies linked to countries considered foreign adversaries, including China, Russia, Iran and North Korea.

Robots deemed to pose unacceptable risks could be added to the Federal Communications Commission’s Covered List, effectively preventing their entry into the US market.

Under the proposal, products that are not reviewed within one year could also be automatically placed on the restricted list.

Lawmakers supporting the measure say the bill is intended to protect critical infrastructure, secure emerging technologies and encourage domestic innovation in the robotics sector as automation becomes increasingly integrated into the American economy.

The proposed legislation comes amid growing scrutiny of Chinese technology companies in the United States and reflects broader concerns in Washington over national security, supply chain dependence and technological competition between the world’s two largest economies.