According to CCTV News, the White House issued a statement on August 13 local time, saying that US President Trump signed a proclamation on the same day to impose ad valorem tariffs ranging from 10 percent to 100 percent on imported drones and their components on the grounds of countering national‑security threats.

The announcement stipulates that a 100 percent ad‑valorem tariff shall be imposed on drones of specific sizes or with specific functions that are highly sensitive, as well as docking stations and certain key components of such drones. This category includes drones with a maximum take‑off weight exceeding 25 kilograms and drones equipped with thermal imaging capabilities.

In addition, a 25 percent ad‑valorem tariff shall be levied on certain smaller‑sized drones without specific functions and other drone components.

The announcement further provides for a 15 percent ad‑valorem tariff on drones and components originating from the European Union, Japan, Liechtenstein, the Republic of Korea, Switzerland and others. Moreover, a 10 percent ad‑valorem tariff shall apply to drones from the United Kingdom, provided that their hardware, software and technology are substantially sourced from the aforementioned countries and regions as well as the United States.

According to the provisions, the above‑mentioned tariffs shall enter into force 21 days from the date of signature. For non‑highly‑sensitive drone components, the tariffs shall take effect 180 days from the date of signature.