China is implementing a ban on the export of unregulated civilian drones that have the potential for military use or could be utilized in terrorist activities. The decision, made by the Commerce Ministry, is aimed at preventing drones from being used in the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Certain features, such as infrared imaging equipment, lasers for target indication, and high-precision inertial measurement equipment, will now be on an export control list. This move comes in light of ongoing Western criticism of China’s stance regarding the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
The Commerce Ministry announced that temporary restrictions on civilian drones would also be lifted, effective September 1. While the specific type of drones affected was not detailed in the statement, last year Beijing had restricted the export of long-range drones in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
Reports from the media and U.S. government intelligence have indicated that China has supplied drones to Russia for military purposes. In April, U.S. officials revealed that China’s drone sales to Russia had significantly increased, with both countries collaborating on the production of unmanned aerial vehicles in Russia. Drones have played a crucial role in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
China ranks as the fourth-largest arms exporter globally, trailing behind the U.S., France, and Russia, according to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. The majority of China’s arms exports are to Pakistan, although they also sell arms to countries in Asia and Africa. Concerns have been growing among U.S. security officials regarding the use of Chinese drones by various U.S. government agencies.
DJI Technology Co., a prominent Chinese company, is a leading manufacturer of drones worldwide, with its products widely used across the globe.
