In a blow to major Chinese drone makers, including DJI and Autel Robotics, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has officially banned the import and sale of new models from foreign manufacturers.
Why the ban?
Several foreign drone companies have been added to the FCC’s “Covered List,” citing “unacceptable national security risk.”
The move aligns with President Donald Trump’s June executive order to mitigate potential surveillance threats from Chinese-made technology and accelerate the production of US-made drones.
However, consumers and agencies can continue to use and purchase drone models that were authorized before the decision. This provides some breathing room for several businesses and federal agencies relying on drones manufactured in the Southeast Asian nation.
DJI expressed disappointment, noting that over 1,800 US law enforcement and emergency response agencies rely on its technology for over 80% of their drone programs.
In 2020, the Shenzhen-based company controlled nearly 77% of the US hobby drone market, according to the Washington Post.
Meanwhile, China’s foreign ministry condemned the drone ban action as discriminatory.
Analysts say the FCC restriction could boost business for American drone companies. But several industries may lose access to affordable drones.