Trump orders talks on robotics imports but stops short of new tariffs

President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on 28 October directing US trade officials to negotiate over imports of robotics, industrial machinery and their parts. The order leaves open the prospect of tariffs, but does not itself impose a new tariff or set a rate for these goods.

The commerce secretary and US trade representative must jointly seek or continue agreements with trading partners they consider appropriate. They must report to Trump on progress within 180 days. That is a reporting deadline, not a date for a trade deal or an import charge to take effect. The commerce secretary is also directed to monitor the imports.

Trump adopted the commerce secretary’s conclusion that reliance on foreign-made equipment threatens US national security. The administration says American production does not meet domestic needs and points to the machinery’s role in defence manufacturing and critical infrastructure. The Bureau of Industry and Security records that the national-security investigation began on 2 September 2025.

Tariffs, quotas, fees and incentives to expand US production are listed as possible later steps, depending on the talks. The proclamation does not name any countries already in negotiations.