In a significant escalation of US-China trade tensions, Beijing has condemned the potential ban on Chinese drones, particularly targeting DJI Technology and Autel Robotics. The US Congress is pushing for restrictions on these manufacturers, citing national security concerns. Representative Elise Stefanik is at the forefront of this initiative, arguing that reliance on Chinese drones is strategically irresponsible. Senator Rick Scott has also voiced support for limiting federal purchases of these drones, drawing parallels to recent incidents involving spy balloons. [2ea4de99]
The US Commerce Department is currently considering new regulations that could restrict or ban drones incorporating Chinese technology from the US supply chain. Public feedback on these potential rules is due by March 4, 2025, and the final decision will rest with President-elect Donald Trump. This move follows China's export bans on 28 American companies, including major defense contractors like Raytheon and Boeing. [09c27626] [d9c351d6]
China's foreign ministry spokeswoman, Mao Ning, criticized the US for interfering in trade and indicated that China would respond to any restrictions on its drone exports. This response comes as DJI is embroiled in a legal battle against the US Department of Defense, challenging its designation as a 'Chinese military company' on a Pentagon blacklist. DJI argues that this classification is incorrect and has caused significant financial harm to the company. [5b73d77a] [d9c351d6]
In addition to congressional actions, the Biden administration's considerations are fueled by warnings from the Commerce Department about 'acute threats' posed by Chinese and Russian technology in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). The department has raised concerns about the potential for adversaries to access and manipulate drones, risking sensitive US data. US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo has underscored the importance of securing the drone technology supply chain for national security. [09c27626]
The House of Representatives has passed the 'Countering CCP Drones Act' as part of the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, which seeks to prohibit the sale of DJI drones in the US. This legislation passed narrowly with a vote of 217 to 199 and is now awaiting Senate consideration. [8668651f] [f09c0b2d]
DJI, which has been a dominant player in the US drone market since its inception in 2006, is known for its affordability and performance. However, the US government has blacklisted the company over concerns related to human rights and alleged military connections. Users of DJI drones have expressed concerns about the potential ban, highlighting the importance of these devices for various applications, including data collection efforts. [2ea4de99]
The potential ban could affect drones used by first responders, farmers, researchers, and law enforcement, as it aims to prohibit the sale of DJI products, accessories, and software in the US. DJI refutes claims that data from its drones could be accessed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and argues that banning companies with Chinese ties is impractical, as it would lead to a ban on millions of products used by American consumers. [a472d01a] [f09c0b2d]
The Countering CCP Drones Act would empower the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to prevent the purchase of DJI drones without evidence. Advocates are urging Congress to remove drone provisions from the NDAA and engage in a broader debate to establish facts and allow stakeholders to weigh in. [953c7588] [a472d01a]
As the US-China trade relationship continues to evolve, bilateral trade reportedly grew by 4.2% to 4.4 trillion yuan ($605.7 billion) from January to November 2024, despite ongoing tensions. Gao Lingyun, a Chinese trade expert, has called for deeper cooperation with ASEAN and the EU to counter unilateralism in trade practices. [4b32617b] [d4ae5226]
The US is also considering new rules to mitigate risks from drones utilizing technology from foreign adversaries, particularly China and Russia. The Commerce Department's notice highlighted that both nations could exploit their market dominance and have previously engaged in cyber espionage against US infrastructure. DJI has faced scrutiny for its alleged surveillance activities, further complicating the narrative around Chinese technology in the US market. [718a81f2]