CHINA on Monday (Jul 31) announced export controls on some drone-related equipment, saying it wanted to safeguard “national security and interests” amid escalating tension with the US over access to technology.

The restrictions on equipment including some drone engines, lasers, communication equipment and anti-drone systems would take effect on Sep 1, the commerce ministry said.

The controls would also affect some consumer drones and no civilian drones could be exported for military purposes, a ministry spokesperson said in a statement.

“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,” the unidentified spokesperson said.

Authorities had notified relevant countries and regions, the spokesperson said.

China has a big drone manufacturing industry and exports to several markets including the US.

GET BT IN YOUR INBOX DAILY

Start and end each day with the latest news stories and analyses delivered straight to your inbox.

Sign UpVIEW ALL

US lawmakers have said that more than 50 per cent of drones sold in the US are made by Chinese-based company DJI, and they are the most popular drone used by public safety agencies.

DJI did not immediately respond to a request for comment on how it might be affected by the export controls.

China’s commerce ministry said in April that US and Western media were spreading “unfounded accusations” that it was exporting drones to the battlefield in Ukraine, adding the reports were an attempt to “smear” Chinese firms and it would continue to strengthen export controls on drones.

The drone export controls come after China announced export controls of some metals widely used in chipmaking last month, following moves by the US to restrict China’s access to key technologies, such as chipmaking equipment. REUTERS