China Imposes Export Controls on Drones Amid Escalating Tensions

China has announced the implementation of export controls on certain drones and drone-related equipment, citing the need to safeguard national security and interests in the face of escalating tension with the United States over access to technology. 

According to reports, the new restrictions, which will take effect on September 1. It will cover a range of equipment, including drone engines, lasers, communication devices, and anti-drone systems. These measures also extend to some consumer drones, and the export of civilian drones for military purposes is strictly prohibited, according to a statement from the Chinese commerce ministry.

A spokesperson for the Chinese commerce ministry emphasized the significance of the drone export controls, stating, "China's modest expansion of the scope of its drone control this time is an important measure to demonstrate our stance as a responsible major country, to implement global security initiatives, and maintain world peace." 

New Restrictions

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has outlined specific criteria for drones that will fall under the newly imposed export controls. According to the ministry, the restrictions will apply to drones that meet the following conditions:

Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Capability: Drones that can fly beyond the natural sight distance of operators.

Extended Flight Time: Drones that can stay aloft for more than 30 minutes in a single flight.

Attachments for Object Throwing: Drones equipped with attachments that have the capability to throw objects.

Weight Limit: Drones weighing more than 7 kilograms (15½ pounds).

The ministry also clarified that relevant countries and regions have been notified about the export restrictions.

Implications for Drone Manufacturers and the US Market

China is a prominent player in the global drone manufacturing industry and exports drones to several markets, including the United States. Notably, more than 50% of drones sold in the US are manufactured by DJI, a China-based company, and they are widely used by public safety agencies. 

The US Congress had previously banned the Pentagon from purchasing or using drones and components made in China due to concerns about data security and potential military use.

DJI's Response to the Export Controls

In response to the new export controls, DJI Technology Co., one of the leading competitors in the drone industry, stated, "We have never designed and manufactured products and equipment for military use, nor have we ever marketed or sold our products for use in military conflicts or wars in any country." 

The company has consistently emphasized its compliance with laws and regulations in the countries where it operates.

Accusations on Chinese Drones and Countering Allegations 

The implementation of drone export controls comes after a German retailer accused DJI of leaking data on Ukrainian military positions to Russia in March 2022, an accusation the company vehemently rejected as "utterly false." 

Similarly, China's commerce ministry had previously denied allegations from Western media that it was exporting drones to the battlefield in Ukraine, dismissing them as "unfounded accusations" and a deliberate attempt to smear Chinese firms.

China-US Technological Rivalry

These drone export restrictions are part of a broader context of China-US technological rivalry. China had previously imposed export controls on certain metals used in chipmaking in response to US moves to restrict China's access to key technologies, including chipmaking equipment. 

The escalating trade and technological tensions between the two countries have significant implications for the global tech industry and have raised concerns about supply chain disruptions.

In conclusion, China's imposition of export controls on drones and drone-related equipment is a notable development amid the ongoing tensions and accusations. As a responsible country, China seeks to assert its stance on global security initiatives and maintain world peace. 

However, the move has also raised concerns among drone manufacturers and has added further complexity to the China-US technological rivalry. The extent of the impact on the drone industry and global tech market remains to be seen as the export controls take effect on September 1.

About DJI

DJI Technology Co. is a China-based drone manufacturing company and a prominent player in the global drone market. It is known for producing high-performance civilian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) widely used in various industries and by public safety agencies. 

The company has been emphasizing its commitment to compliance with export control regulations and has denied any involvement in military use or conflicts.