FCC Expands Covered List, Blocking More Foreign-Made Tech by Category
New FCC restrictions on broad categories of foreign-produced technology, not just named companies, create urgent supply-chain diligence requirements for US importers and manufacturers.
The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is expanding its "Covered List," a key national security tool that blocks market access for communications equipment deemed to pose an unacceptable risk. Recent additions have moved beyond targeting specific companies to banning broad categories of technology—including drones, consumer routers, advanced robotics, and power inverters—based on their country of production. This shift means equipment can be blocked from receiving the FCC authorization required for US importation and sale, regardless of the manufacturer's nationality. The restrictions impact any company with global manufacturing, including US-headquartered firms producing abroad. Furthermore, the FCC is now scrutinizing internal components, demanding unprecedented visibility deep into supply chains. While a "conditional approval" process offers a potential exemption, it requires extensive disclosure of corporate structure and manufacturing details. Companies that import, make, or use connected devices must now urgently assess their supply-chain vulnerabilities as the government continues to use this powerful tool to mitigate technology-based national security risks.