New guidelines set out for drone equipment exports

China on Wednesday optimized export control measures on certain types of drones and some drone-related components, according to a notice issued by the Ministry of Commerce and other two government departments.

The ministry said China will abolish temporary control of certain consumer-grade drones, and prohibit the export of civilian drones that are not included in the export control list for use in the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorist activities or military purposes. The new measures will take effect from Sept 1.

The ministry has also adjusted the control standards for some important components of drones, such as infrared imaging equipment and lasers for target indication.

The move will better safeguard China's national security and interests, and ensure the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains, a ministry spokesperson said.

The Chinese government firmly supports Chinese companies conducting international trade and cooperation of drones in the civilian area, opposes the illegal use of civilian drones for non-peaceful purposes, and opposes the frequent use of drones as an excuse by certain countries to impose illegal sanctions on Chinese companies and individuals, the spokesperson noted.

China would continue to track and assess the situation of drone exports and make timely adjustments and improvements to the policies, the spokesperson added.

The adjustments come a year after China announced export control measures on certain drones and a number of pieces of drone-related equipment, including lasers, communication instruments, hyperspectral cameras and anti-drone systems, in July 2023.

DJI, the world's largest commercial drone manufacturer by market share, said in a statement to China Daily, "We are pleased to note the adjustments made to the export control measures by the Ministry of Commerce. The revised direction is expected to be more favorable for the development and technology application of the entire drone industry.

"DJI have made it absolutely clear that our products are for civilian use only. The company has never designed, developed or manufactured military-grade equipment, we have never adapted our products or pursued business opportunities for combat operations; we have never marketed or sold our products for combat use in any country."

The company, based in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, also said it will continue to strictly comply with and implement China's export control regulations, and the applicable laws and regulations of the countries and regions where it operates.