China curbs drone exports due to concern over military use
China has restricted exports of long-range civilian drones, citing concerns they might be converted for military use.
Exports of certain classes of drones, their engines and infrared imaging equipment will not be allowed without a license starting September 1, government agencies said. The restriction will be effective for no longer than two years.
The agencies said the decision was made to prevent the use of drones for “non-peaceful purposes.”
“The risk of some high specification and high-performance civilian unmanned aerial vehicles being converted to military use is constantly increasing,” the Chinese Commerce Ministry said in a statement.
Since the war in Ukraine began in February 2022, “some Chinese civilian drone companies have voluntarily suspended their operations in conflict areas,” the ministry said.
It also said the United States and Western media keep spreading “false information” about Chinese drone exports.
In April, the ministry said US and Western media were spreading "unfounded accusations" that Beijing was helping Russia evade Western sanctions and likely providing Moscow with military and dual-application technology for use in Ukraine.
Beijing has repeatedly denied sending military equipment to Russia since the conflict began.
China has “always opposed the use of civilian drones for military purposes,” the ministry said.
“The moderate expansion of drone control by China this time is an important measure to demonstrate the responsibility of a major country.”
China is a leading developer and exporter of drones. More than 50% of drones sold in the US are made by Chinese-based company DJI, and they are the most popular drones used by public safety agencies, according to US lawmakers.
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