China restricts exports of drone equipment “to protect national security”

Reuters reports that starting 1 September, the country will impose restrictions on drone equipment such as certain engines, lasers, communications and anti-drone systems, according to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce. The control measures are aimed at ensuring national security and interests.

Beijing also imposed export controls on some metals used in chip manufacturing after the United States restricted China's access to important technologies, including chip manufacturing equipment, in early June.

China is a major producer and exporter of unmanned aerial vehicles to various markets, including the United States.

According to US lawmakers, most of the drones sold to the United States are made by the Chinese company DJI, and these are the most common drones used by public security agencies.

Joe Biden intends to sign an executive order in mid-August to restrict critical US investments in Chinese technology companies.