China issued export controls on drone-related equipment for national security reasons. The restrictions will be effective from September 1, covering drone engines, lasers, and communication equipment.
Anti-drone systems will also fall under these controls, affecting the drone industry. Tensions between China and the US over technology have escalated in recent months. Both countries have imposed sanctions and export controls on each other’s technology companies.
China’s commerce ministry claims the new controls protect national security, not civilian drones. Experts fear these controls could significantly impact the global drone market. Foreign companies may find it harder to obtain drone components from China.
China’s prominent role as a drone producer adds weight to these concerns. The US-China trade war adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
The export controls could further strain relations between the two countries. The outcome on the global drone market remains uncertain but reflects China’s bid to protect its tech edge.
