DJI, the world's leading drone maker, is facing a potential ban on its drones in the United States. The United States House of Representatives has narrowly passed the 'Countering CCP Drones Act' as part of the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, which aims to ban DJI drones in the country. The bill, introduced by Congressman Mike Gallagher and Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, passed by a narrow margin of 217:199. It has already passed the House and Senate committee votes and will now move on to the Senate for further debate and possible amendments. [8668651f] [f09c0b2d]
The bill is driven by concerns over Chinese government backdoors, national security risks, and the impact on the US economy. DJI, a Chinese drone maker, currently controls over 70% of the global drone market share. If the bill becomes law, it would prohibit the sale of future DJI products, accessories, and software in the US. However, it would not affect the use of existing DJI drones. [8668651f] [f09c0b2d]
DJI has strongly criticized the potential ban, arguing that the security concerns behind the bill are baseless. The company emphasizes that its drones are innovative, user-friendly, and affordable. DJI drones are widely used for non-commercial purposes, including assisting first responders. DJI and the Drone Advocacy Alliance are urging the public to oppose any legislation restricting the use of drones. [8668651f]
The ban on DJI drone sales in the US is part of a larger trend of tariffs and bans against successful Chinese companies in the US. While the ban is claimed to be driven by safety concerns rather than a trade conflict, it highlights the growing tensions between the US and China. [f09c0b2d]
There are concerns that existing FCC authorizations for DJI products and drone fleets could be revoked if the bill becomes law, forcing devices to be grounded. This would have significant implications for both DJI and drone enthusiasts worldwide. [8668651f]
It is important to note that the ban does not prohibit the use of already purchased DJI drones in the US. [f09c0b2d]
If the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is passed in its current form, drones used by first responders, farmers, researchers, and law enforcement may become illegal. The legislation aims to ban companies with Chinese ties, impacting the drone market. DJI, a China-based company, produces drones without peer in the market. American companies use drone technology in various sectors such as firefighting, filmmaking, academic research, herbicide spraying, infrastructure inspection, and environmental monitoring. The House has inserted two provisions in the legislation to limit access to the best drones on the market. DJI refutes claims that data from Chinese-produced drones will be accessed by the CCP and used against Americans. Banning companies with Chinese ties is not currently practical as it would lead to a ban on millions of products used daily by American consumers. DJI claims to have taken measures to ensure the security of its drones, including cybersecurity and data security practices. DJI has a $116 billion economic impact on the American economy, enabling 450,000 jobs. The Countering CCP Drones Act empowers the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to prevent the purchase of DJI drones without evidence. Congress should remove drone provisions from the NDAA and engage in a larger debate to establish facts and allow stakeholders to weigh in. [a472d01a] [f09c0b2d]