China curbs exports of drone-related equipment amid U.S. tech tensions (updated)

USU Ventures AG

31/07/2023 10:52

(Adds details and context)
       BEIJING, July 31 (Reuters) - China on Monday announced
export controls on some drone-related equipment amid escalating
tensions with the United States over access to technology.
    China's commerce ministry said in a statement the
restrictions on equipment including some drone engines, lasers,
communication equipment and anti-drone systems would take effect
from Sept. 1.
    It said the controls were aimed at "safeguarding national
security and interests".
    They come after Beijing also announced export controls of
some metals widely used in chipmaking earlier last month,
following moves by the United States to restrict China's access
to key technologies, such as chipmaking equipment. 
    China has a big drone manufacturing industry and exports to
several markets including the U.S. 
    U.S. lawmakers have said that over 50% of drones sold in the
U.S. 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 U.S. 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 the country
would continue to strengthen export controls on drones.

 (Reporting by Beijing newsroom  Editing by Mark Potter)