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Beijing
will tighten control over the export of some UAVs and related equipment in order
to prevent their use for military purposes, Reuters reported on July 31, citing
China’s Commerce Ministry.
The ministry announced that restrictions on exports of equipment, including some drone engines, lasers, communication equipment, and anti-drone systems, will come into effect on Sept. 1.
The statement adds that the export controls will also affect certain consumer drones, and no civilian drones can be exported for combat purposes.
"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," a Chinese spokesperson said.
He noted that the Chinese authorities have already informed the respective countries and regions about this decision.
As Reuters points out, this move takes place in the context of tension in China-U.S. relations regarding access to technology, as China has a large drone production industry and exports it to several markets, including the United States.
U.S. lawmakers have reported that more than half of drones sold in the United States are manufactured by the Chinese company DJI and they are the most popular drones used by public safety services.
On July 31, DJI stated that it always strictly adheres to and ensures compliance with the laws and regulations of the countries or regions in which it operates, including China's export control requirements.
"We have never designed and manufactured products and equipment for military use, nor have we ever marketed or sold our products for use in military conflicts or wars in any country," the company said.
In April, China's Commerce Ministry stated that Western media is spreading "unfounded accusations" that China exports drones to Russia for use in the war against Ukraine and added that they will continue to strengthen export control over drones.
Washington and its allies have repeatedly stated that China is considering supplying weapons to Russia. Beijing has consistently denied any such plans, and Ukrainian authorities say there’s no evidence China is arming the Russian military.
At the same time, a recent Politico report noted that China continues to supply Russia with non-lethal dual-use equipment. In 2023, the import of drones from China to Russia amounted to over $100 million, which is 30 times more than their imports to Ukraine.
On July 27, a U.S. intelligence report stated that China is helping Russia evade Western sanctions and is “likely” providing military technology to Moscow.
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