China curbs exports of drone equipment amid US tech tension

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

China on Monday announced export controls on some drones and drone-related equipment, saying it wanted to safeguard «national security and interests» amid escalating tension with the United States over access to technology. The restrictions on equipment, including some drone engines, lasers, communication equipment and anti-drone systems, will take effect on Sept. 1, the commerce ministry said.

The controls also affect some consumer drones, and no civilian drones can be exported for military purposes, a ministry spokesperson said in a statement. «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,» the unidentified spokesperson said. Authorities had notified relevant countries and regions, the spokesperson said.

China has a large drone manufacturing industry and exports to several markets, including the United States. The Department of Defense and Commerce Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Congress in 2019 banned the Pentagon from buying or using drones and components manufactured in China.

U.S. lawmakers have said that more than 50% of drones sold in the U.S. are made by Chinese-based company DJI, and they are the most popular drone used by public safety agencies.