Section 232 proclamation opens talks on robotics and machinery imports

This proclamation adopts the Commerce Department's Section 232 finding that imports of robotics, industrial machinery, and their parts and components threaten to impair US national security. It directs the Secretary of Commerce and the US Trade Representative to pursue, or continue pursuing, negotiations with foreign trading partners to address that threat. The document does not itself set a tariff rate, quota, or fee.

The proclamation describes robotics and industrial machinery as important to defense production, critical infrastructure, and broader manufacturing. It states that the United States relies on foreign imports for most types of these goods and their components, and that imported products from certain foreign entities can create security and safety risks, including cybersecurity vulnerabilities. It also states that domestic production is not sufficient to meet national security needs.

The Secretary and the Trade Representative must provide an update on negotiations within 180 days of the proclamation date. The proclamation also states that Section 232 allows other import adjustment tools, including tariffs, duties, quotas, and fees, and says those remedies may be considered depending on the status or outcome of the negotiations.