China placed export restrictions on long-range civilian drones and some drone-related equipment on Monday, claiming that it was doing so to protect “national security and interests” in the face of rising tensions with the United States over technological access.

A statement released by the Chinese commerce ministry confirmed that restrictions have been applied on equipment, including some drone engines, lasers communication equipment, and anti-drone systems, which will take effect on September 1. 

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

“The risk of some high specification and high-performance civilian unmanned aerial vehicles being converted to military use is constantly increasing,” the Ministry of Commerce said.

"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.

Restrictions will apply to drones that can fly beyond the natural sight distance of operators or stay aloft for more than 30 minutes, have attachments that can throw objects, and weigh more than 7 kilograms (15½ pounds), according to the ministry.

“Since the crisis in Ukraine, some Chinese civilian drone companies have voluntarily suspended their operations in conflict areas,” the Ministry of Commerce said. It accused the United States and Western media of spreading “false information” about Chinese drone exports.

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

Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s government is friendly with Moscow but says it is neutral in the 17-month-old war. It has been stung by reports that both sides might be using Chinese-made drones for reconnaissance and possibly attacks.

China has a significant drone manufacturing industry with exports to several markets, including the US. According to US lawmakers, more than 50 percent of drones sold in the country are made by China-based company DJI, and they are the most popular and widely used drones by public safety agencies. 

After the announcement, DJI said it will fall in line and comply with the enforced laws and regulations, including China's export control regulatory requirements.

"We have never designed and manufactured products and equipment for military use, nor have we ever marketed or sold our products for use in military conflicts or wars in any country," the drone maker added. 

The Ukrainian government appealed to DJI in March 2022 to stop selling drones it said the Russian ministry was using to target missile attacks. DJI rejected claims it leaked data on Ukraine’s military positions to Russia.

Image source: Reuters