U.S. Commerce Department Seeks Public Comments on Risks From Imported Robotics and Industrial Machines

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On September 2, 2025, the United States Department of Commerce started a national security investigation. The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is leading this work. The focus is on imports of robotics and industrial machinery.

The Department wants to know how these imports may affect United States national security. The investigation is under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. The public can send comments and data. The deadline to submit is October 17, 2025.

Robotics and industrial machinery in this investigation include robots and mechanical systems run by computers. It also covers CNC machines, turning and milling machines, grinding equipment, and stamping and pressing machines. Other types include automatic tool changers, jigs, fixtures, and machine tools for cutting, welding, or handling work pieces. It also covers metalworking equipment like autoclaves, industrial ovens, and laser or water-cutting tools. This investigation does not look at unmanned aircraft systems. Those are studied in a different review.

The Department wants comments on many issues, including:

  • How much demand there is in the United States for robotics and industrial machinery now, in the future, and in the best case.
  • How much of this demand can be met by makers in the United States.
  • The role of foreign supply chains, especially from top exporting countries.
  • How much U.S. imports come from only a few suppliers or countries. Also, any risks because of this.
  • The impact of money or support from foreign governments that could hurt U.S. makers.
  • If foreign countries keep prices low on purpose or make too much, hurting U.S. jobs or businesses.
  • The chance that foreign countries could limit exports or use control over supplies for harm.
  • If it is possible to increase U.S. capacity to depend less on other countries.
  • How current trade rules affect U.S. makers, and if more steps are needed, like tariffs or limits on imports.
  • Effects on U.S. jobs from using, or not using, robotics and industrial machines.
  • If foreign countries or people could control or misuse the supply chain.
  • The risk that foreign-built machines or parts could be misused.
  • The future importance of robotics and industrial machines for U.S. national security items or work.
  • Any other points the public thinks matter.

The BIS will accept business confidential information, if marked as required. Public comments will be posted unless marked as confidential. The Department will not make U.S. government communications public. Instructions for submitting comments and for business confidential information are listed in the official notice.

Anyone with questions can contact Stephen Astle, Director at the Defense Industrial Base Division, Office of Strategic Industries and Economic Security, at (202) 482-4506. More information is available at www.bis.doc.gov/232. Records connected to this investigation can also be found at https://efoia.bis.doc.gov/.

The Department of Commerce asks all interested parties to share their views and information by October 17, 2025. The official responsible for this notice is Julia A. Khersonsky, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Strategic Trade.


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