United States is evaluating possible regulations to limit or prohibit Chinese drones

The U.S. Commerce Department announced on Thursday that it is contemplating new regulations that could impose restrictions or outright bans on Chinese drones within the United States, citing concerns related to national security. The department is inviting public feedback by March 4 regarding potential measures aimed at protecting the drone supply chain, highlighting that threats from China and Russia could enable adversaries to remotely access and manipulate these devices, thereby compromising sensitive U.S. information.

China represents a significant portion of the U.S. commercial drone market. In September, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo indicated that the department might implement restrictions akin to those that would effectively prohibit Chinese vehicles from entering the U.S. The emphasis will be on drones equipped with Chinese and Russian technology, including chips and software. She expressed hope in November to finalize regulations concerning Chinese vehicles by January 20.

The decision to establish new rules regarding the restriction or ban of Chinese drones will fall to the administration of President-elect Donald Trump, who will assume office on January 20. Over the past year, Washington has taken various measures to limit the presence of Chinese drones. Last month, President Joe Biden enacted legislation that could prevent China-based companies like DJI and Autel Robotics from introducing new drone models in the U.S. An unspecified U.S. agency is required to assess within a year whether drones from these companies pose unacceptable national security threats.

DJI, the leading global drone manufacturer, which accounts for over half of all commercial drones sold in the U.S., stated that if no agency completes the required study, it would hinder the company’s ability to launch new products in the U.S. In September, the House of Representatives voted to prohibit new DJI drones from operating in the country. In October, DJI filed a lawsuit against the Defense Department for including it on a list of companies allegedly collaborating with Beijing’s military, asserting that this classification is erroneous and has resulted in financial damage to the company.

DJI informed Reuters in October that Customs and Border Protection had halted the importation of certain DJI drones into the United States, referencing the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act. The company asserted that no forced labor is utilized at any point in its production process. U.S. legislators have consistently expressed worries regarding the potential data transmission, surveillance, and national security threats posed by DJI drones, claims that the company disputes.

In 2019, Congress prohibited the Pentagon from purchasing or utilizing drones and components produced in China.