US President Donald Trump has approved a decree that establishes new customs duties on the import of unmanned aerial vehicles and their components. The basis for this decision was the country's dependence on foreign suppliers and the associated risks to national security.
According to the decree, the maximum tariff rate will reach 100% and will come into force in twenty-one days. This high rate will apply to drones with a maximum takeoff weight exceeding 25 kilograms, as well as to aircraft equipped with thermal imagers. Furthermore, certain docking stations and vital elements of such drones will be subject to this rate. A tariff of 25% has been set for smaller models.
Reduced rates are provided for goods coming from specific US partner countries. Products from Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Taiwan, and the European Union will be subject to a 15% duty, while supplies from the United Kingdom will have a 10% rate. These preferential tariffs depend on meeting requirements regarding the origin of the equipment, software, and technology.
The adoption of this decision followed an inspection conducted by the US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lathnik. The administration concluded that the American market relies heavily on foreign drones and their components, and that foreign suppliers pose a potential security threat. Moreover, according to the administration's assessment, domestic production in the US is not yet capable of fully meeting the country's needs.
The deadlines for implementing tariffs on less critical components will be longer—up to 180 days. A similar period is provided for some goods that the US Federal Communications Commission can exempt from restrictions by decision of the Pentagon. Concurrently, the Department of Commerce will gain the authority to initiate a program to support domestic drone production within the US. Companies investing in expanding production capacity and manufacturing drones and their components will be able to receive additional benefits for developing the American industry.
It should be noted that earlier, in July, the US had already introduced tariffs of 10–12.5% on goods from more than eighty countries that supply almost all of America's imports. However, items such as oil, gas, fertilizers, a number of food products, critical minerals, as well as certain types of automobiles and metals, were not included under the new tariffs.
GWM is preparing to introduce two more sport utility vehicles (SUVs) to the Brazilian market: the Haval H7 and the Tank 400. These models aim to enrich the product line with more electrified options, although each presents distinct characteristics.
AutoPapo obtained images of these two models during tests conducted in Brazil, and both are scheduled for release in 2026. The SUVs with a more square design are currently popular in China.
The Haval H7 will be offered in this squared format, serving as an alternative to models with chassis and reduced 4x4 traction, such as the Haval H9 and Tank 300. This new Haval H7 shares a platform with the H6 model, which is already sold in Brazil. Furthermore, it will inherit the plug-in hybrid flex mechanical system, with the configuration possibly being PHEV35.
Although there are visual similarities with the Haval H9, the new H7 will have a monocoque structure and capacity for five passengers. One maintained feature is the side opening of the tailgate, a feature present in some markets where the spare tire is mounted on it. Internally, the model follows the Chinese standard of having a prominent screen, but GWM has retained physical buttons for essential functions. The dimensions of the Haval H7 are: 4.80 m in length, 1.95 m in width, 1.84 m in height, and 2.74 m in wheelbase.
In the case of the Tank 400, GWM adopted the traditional SUV methodology, equipping it with a ladder frame chassis, rear suspension on a solid axle, and 4x4 traction with a reducer, making it suitable for off-road use. This second vehicle in the Tank line will be positioned above the 300 model already available in the country, standing out due to its larger size, more spacious trunk, and a more angular look.
The Tank 400 uses the same mechanical system as the model already circulating in Brazil. It combines a 2.0 turbo flex engine with an electric motor integrated into the 9-speed gearbox, ensuring four-wheel drive regardless of the energy source used. The traction is configured as 4x4 with a reducer, including locking differentials front and rear. To facilitate movement on difficult trails, the vehicle features the Tank Turn system, which locks the inner rear wheel to reduce the turning radius.
The Tank 400 presents a more sophisticated interior than its smaller predecessor, featuring a larger screen. It also retains physical buttons for the most used functions and specific trail features. GWM demonstrates a continuous launch strategy, planning at least two new models annually. In 2026, in addition to this pair of SUVs, the brand has already announced the Ora 5 and various flex versions of its plug-in hybrid models, thus concluding the year's launch cycle.
According to data from the National Statistical Committee, between January and June 2026, Uzbekistan imported 37,874 electric vehicles for a total amount of 447.7 million US dollars.
This import volume significantly exceeded the figures for the same period in 2025, increasing by 23,500 units, which represents a 2.6-fold growth.
China remains the main supplier of electric vehicles to Uzbekistan. In the first six months of 2026, 37,560 electric vehicles were imported from the People's Republic of China.
Hong Kong (Special Administrative Region of China) took second place, supplying 141 electric vehicles to Uzbekistan. Shipments were also made by the Republic of Korea (80 cars), Germany (42 cars), and the USA (21 car). Additionally, 30 electric vehicles arrived from other countries.
Thus, China accounted for about 99.2% of the total volume of electric vehicle imports into Uzbekistan in January-June 2026. The remaining 314 cars were delivered from Hong Kong, South Korea, Germany, the USA, and other states.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Construction and Housing and Communal Services of Uzbekistan, the creation of over one hundred modern gas stations is planned in various regions of Uzbekistan. This project is being implemented by the American company Gulf and aims to develop gas station infrastructure in accordance with international standards.
Representatives of the ministry held a meeting with the Gulf delegation to discuss the creation of modern gas stations, the development of necessary infrastructure, and the implementation of international norms. The parties paid special attention to the requirements for design and construction, considering the growth of the fuel market and increasing consumer demand.
The proposed standard projects involve the application of advanced technologies, increased safety requirements, reduction of environmental risks, as well as the creation of conditions for providing consumers with modern services. Representatives of Gulf noted the growing interest of foreign investors in the development of Uzbekistan's fuel infrastructure amid current market dynamics.
Furthermore, the issue of studying international experience, adapting modern standards to the conditions of Uzbekistan, and prospects for further cooperation was discussed. Gulf is an international brand operating in the energy sector, with its history dating back to Gulf Oil Corporation, founded in 1901. Currently, Gulf operates in various countries based on licensing and partnership agreements, specializing in gas stations, lubricants, and other petroleum products.
