Science & Tech
China tightens export controls on dual-use drones
Beijing announced on Monday it was imposing stricter export controls next month on specific engines designed for drones, drone technology, as well as some drone models with capabilities such as continuous flight for three hours.
A police drone patrols over the city of Yantai in Yantai, China, on August 9, 2024. China dominates the drone industry, with its homegrown DJI capturing more than two-thirds of the global drone market in recent years. (AFP)
By: AFP ., Journalist @New Vision
___________________
BEIJING - China is tightening export restrictions on dual-use drones and drone-related items, in a move authorities said Monday would safeguard national security and prevent their "illicit" use in global conflicts.
China dominates the drone industry, with its homegrown DJI capturing more than two-thirds of the global drone market in recent years, according to studies.
Low-cost drones used for reconnaissance and strikes are in growing demand as governments around the world boost defence spending in the face of intensifying conflicts, such as in Iran and Ukraine.
Beijing announced on Monday it was imposing stricter export controls next month on specific engines designed for drones, drone technology, as well as some drone models with capabilities such as continuous flight for three hours.
Exporters of these items will have to apply for a licence, according to a joint statement from China's Ministry of Commerce, General Administration of Customs and Central Military Commission.
People who violate these rules through unauthorised exports or the illicit resale will be penalised in accordance with the law, the statement added.
The new export controls will take effect from November 18.
Exporters of these items will have to apply for a licence, according to a joint statement from China's Ministry of Commerce, General Administration of Customs and Central Military Commission.
People who violate these rules through unauthorised exports or the illicit resale will be penalised in accordance with the law, the statement added.
The new export controls will take effect from November 18.
Beijing's commerce ministry said in a separate statement that the drones and drone-related items listed have "clear dual-use applications, both civilian and military" and that the fresh measures will "safeguard national security and interests".
"The latest adjustments to drone export controls... fully demonstrate China's firm opposition to the illicit use of drones for non-peaceful purposes," the ministry added.
China strengthened export controls on drones and their key components and technology to the United States in August, in response to trade sanctions imposed by Washington over forced labour and national security concerns.
Drones have become an increasingly sensitive topic in China's capital Beijing, and possession and storage of them will be banned starting mid-November.
Airspace safety fears were heightened in June when a light aircraft smashed into Beijing's tallest building, killing the pilot and injuring 13 others.
"The latest adjustments to drone export controls... fully demonstrate China's firm opposition to the illicit use of drones for non-peaceful purposes," the ministry added.
China strengthened export controls on drones and their key components and technology to the United States in August, in response to trade sanctions imposed by Washington over forced labour and national security concerns.
Drones have become an increasingly sensitive topic in China's capital Beijing, and possession and storage of them will be banned starting mid-November.
Airspace safety fears were heightened in June when a light aircraft smashed into Beijing's tallest building, killing the pilot and injuring 13 others.