Trump makes humanoid robotics next national priority

The Trump administration is preparing a national industrial strategy that places new emphasis on domestic development of humanoid robots. The effort follows broader initiatives to expand U.S. capabilities in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, rare earth production, clean technologies, and space-related industries expected to shape the global economy in the 2030s.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has held meetings with leaders of major technology companies as officials consider an executive order next year to speed U.S. production of humanoid robots. According to Politico, the Department of Transportation is also establishing a robotics working group as part of the administration’s planning.

The policy discussions coincide with rapid movement in the private sector. Elon Musk’s Tesla is preparing to scale production of its Optimus humanoid robot to one million units by the end of next year. Earlier in the fall, Tesla reportedly placed a large order for linear actuators from China, a signal that the company is preparing for expanded manufacturing.

A Commerce Department spokesperson told Politico that robotics and advanced manufacturing are central to efforts to return critical production to the United States. Politico reported that the administration’s national robotics strategy could be released early next year.

Interest in robotics is rising on Capitol Hill. A Republican amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act proposed creating a national robotics commission, though it was not included in the final bill. Other legislative proposals are advancing.

Financial institutions are tracking long-term trends. Morgan Stanley analyst Shawn Kim told clients that humanoid robot adoption could exceed one billion units globally by 2050. The firm’s Global Insight report projects slow initial adoption until the mid-2030s, with faster uptake in the late 2030s and 2040s as technology improves, prices decline, and acceptance increases.

The administration’s strategy is aimed at strengthening U.S. industrial capacity for AI systems, robotics, drones, and chips as global technological competition intensifies. Officials view the coming decade as a period requiring expanded domestic supply chains and increased production of emerging technologies.