Trump drone tariffs target a technology still used unevenly across US farms

Drone use remains limited among most U.S. farms, but larger farms have adopted the technology at a higher rate than small farm operations, federal data show.

In 2023, 12% of large-scale family farms used drones, compared with 9% of midsize farms and 2% of small family farms, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service report, America’s Farms and Ranches at a Glance: 2024 Edition.

Among farms that used drones, 40% cited increased yields as a reason for using the technology, and the same share cited saving labor time, according to the USDA’s report. Another 29% cited improving soil or reducing environmental impacts, a quarter said reducing purchased input costs was a reason, and more than one-fifth reported reducing operator fatigue.

The data provides a snapshot of agricultural drone use as the federal government changes the economics of buying the technology.

President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on imported drones and components Aug. 13, pointing out that reliance on foreign suppliers poses a national security risk. The main tariffs took effect Sept. 3.

The highest tariff — 100% — applies to drones weighing more than 25 kilograms, or about 55 pounds, and those equipped with thermal imaging capabilities. The tariff also applies to their docking stations and certain critical components.

The new policy imposes a 25% tariff on certain smaller drones that lack capabilities considered particularly relevant to national security.

Drones and components from the European Union, Japan, Liechtenstein, South Korea, Switzerland and Taiwan face a 15% tariff. Drones from the United Kingdom face a 10% tariff, provided that substantially all of their hardware, software and technology originate in those countries or the United States.

On farms, drones are used for a range of tasks. USDA has reported that farmers use aerial imagery provided by aircraft, drones, and satellites for crop mapping, livestock monitoring, land surveying, and spraying, among other uses.

Data Harvest (formerly Graphic of the Week) is Investigate Midwest’s way of making complex agricultural data easy to understand. Through engaging graphics, charts, and maps, we break down key trends to help readers quickly grasp the forces shaping farming, food systems, and rural communities. Want us to explore other data trends? Let us know here.