FCC bans imports of new humanoid robots and power inverters, citing national security risks

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission is banning imports of "new versions" of foreign-made robots and power inverters, citing national security risks. 

The ban targets Chinese products, and Beijing accused the U.S. of protectionism, the Associated Press reported. The FCC said the imports of advanced robots pose cybersecurity and other national security risks, and the offshore production of the equipment leaves U.S. supply chains vulnerable. 

The power inverters are used in renewable energy systems, data centers and household appliances. The ban also applies to four-legged robots. 

China controls approximately 85% of the global humanoid robot market, and the ban is likely to test relations between the U.S. and China ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to the U.S. in September. 

The FCC's ban is in addition to existing bans on imports of other Chinese tech products, including drones.