China Restricts Drone Exports Amid Global Security Concerns

In a bid to safeguard national security and interests, China declared on Monday that it would tighten controls on the export of drones and related equipment. The new regulations, effective from September 1, necessitate that vendors acquire permission before exporting specific drone technologies, including engines, lasers, imaging, communications, radar gear, and anti-drone systems. Some consumer-grade drones also fall under these restrictions.

The announcement further clarified that civilian drones excluded from the regulations are banned from being exported for military use.

The Commerce Ministry said, “China’s modest expansion of the scope of drone control this time is an important measure to demonstrate its commitment as a responsible major country to implement global security initiatives and maintain world peace.”

China has expressed consistent opposition to the use of civilian drones for military purposes.

Drones have become a significant factor in modern…