Trump Signs $7.1 Trillion Robotics Import Proclamation

President Trump signed a proclamation to curb imports of robotics and industrial machinery, worth $7.1 trillion in U.S. shipments this year. The move follows a 90-day investigation by the Secretary of Commerce that found these imports could threaten U.S. national security. Robotics power everything from aircraft to autonomous ground vehicles that help soldiers conduct surveillance, mine detection, and casualty extraction. Industrial machines build critical defense equipment like missiles, ships, and aircraft, and also keep 16 U.S. critical infrastructure sectors running. Yet the U.S. imports most of these parts, with domestic production far below demand, risking long-term competitiveness. Trump's proclamation will impose new duties and licensing requirements, aiming to protect data security and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. The president said the action safeguards America's defense readiness and keeps the economy strong.