The White House announced a presidential proclamation imposing tariffs on drones and drone components: 100% for drones above 25 kg and sensitive items, and 25% for smaller drones and non‑sensitive parts. The proclamation gives 15% rates to EU countries, Japan, Liechtenstein, South Korea, Switzerland and Taiwan, and 10% to the UK; Norway is not listed among the preferred countries.
The Norwegian Foreign Ministry told Shifter the measure applies only to aerial drones. Norwegian startups say the announcement has created uncertainty: Maritime Robotics, which sells surface and underwater drones including to the US, said the company was interviewed before that confirmation and is reassessing exposure after previously facing a 500,000 kroner customs bill on a US shipment.
Stendr founder Aleksander Leonard Larsen described the move as potentially mercantilist, warning it could advantage local US firms and force foreign companies to change market plans. Shifter reports Norwegian drone entrepreneurs are awaiting further clarification from authorities.