The U.S. government has decided to impose tariffs of up to 100% on unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and key components, with a maximum of 15% on products from South Korea. In response, the South Korean government will engage in discussions regarding detailed certification standards.
According to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the White House announced on August 13, based on Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, the imposition of tariffs on UAS. This measure aims to reduce dependence on foreign supply chains and address cybersecurity vulnerabilities while enhancing domestic production capabilities for UAS and components.
Starting September 3, UAS with a maximum takeoff weight exceeding 25 kg will be subject to a 100% tariff. This rate will also apply to UAS equipped with thermal imaging equipment, UAS docking stations, and certain key components.
For UAS weighing 25 kg or less without thermal imaging equipment, a 25% tariff will be imposed. The 25% tariff on certain components will take effect on February 9, 2027. However, companies that receive drone-related certifications or approvals from the U.S. Department of Defense or the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will be subject to the tariffs starting February 9, 2027.
Products manufactured in South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and the European Union (EU) will be eligible for special preferential conditions. If companies can prove that all key components and technologies are sourced from these countries or the U.S., the total tariff rate will not exceed 15%.
Details regarding which components and technologies will be considered for origin determination and how companies must prove this are yet to be finalized. The U.S. Department of Commerce plans to establish procedures for assessing compliance with the requirements for key components and technologies.
The tariff regulations also include exemptions to encourage investment in domestic production facilities. Companies that begin the establishment, renovation, or expansion of UAS and component production facilities in the U.S. before January 20, 2029, can import products and production equipment without tariffs during the construction period, subject to approval from the U.S. Department of Commerce.
While this measure secures the possibility of lower tariffs for South Korean UAS compared to competing products, companies still face the burden of proving the origin of key components and technologies. Notably, products classified as South Korean that utilize key components or technologies from non-preferential countries like China may not benefit from the 15% cap.
In light of this, the South Korean government plans to engage in discussions with the U.S. The Ministry stated, "We plan to negotiate with the U.S. regarding the unconfirmed details necessary for the application of preferential tariff rates for South Korean products, and we will also assess the impact on domestic industries' exports to the U.S. and supply chains in collaboration with relevant ministries."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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