On 23 March 2026 the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) formally updated its Covered List, adding foreign-made consumer-grade routers. Foreign manufacturers can no longer obtain new FCC equipment authorisation, and the products concerned may not be lawfully imported into or sold in the United States.

Scope of the restriction

The restriction mainly targets consumer-grade routers intended for residential use and capable of being installed by consumers themselves. Foreign manufacturers are barred outright from obtaining new FCC certification for such products. Routers that have already obtained FCC certification are not affected and may continue to be imported and sold.

Exemption mechanism and application

The FCC has also established a conditional exemption route. Following FCC guidance, manufacturers may apply to the US Department of War (DoW) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for a conditional approval. If approved, the applicant may obtain an exemption of up to 18 months, during which it can continue to obtain FCC certification.

The procedure is as follows: the manufacturer submits documents to a designated FCC mailbox, and the FCC forwards them to the DoW and DHS for review. Once the review is passed, the FCC may continue to grant authorisation for new equipment models.

Main documents required

The following key documents are required when applying for conditional approval:

· Corporate structure: full ownership structure, beneficial owners (holding 5 percent or more), and an explanation of any foreign government funding influence;

· Manufacturing and supply chain disclosure: a detailed bill of materials (BOM), country of origin of components, and single point of failure risk assessment;

· US manufacturing and reshoring plan: a concrete timetable for expanding capacity within the United States, capital expenditure arrangements and a progress reporting mechanism.

The FCC said the measure is intended to guard against national security risks that foreign-made network equipment may pose. Exporters concerned should assess as soon as possible whether their products fall within the restriction, and either start an exemption application or adjust their export strategy for the United States.