China has decided to remove the temporary export controls on certain high-performance drones, which were implemented last September, to protect national security and interests.
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce, the General Administration of Customs, the State Administration of Science, Technology, and Industry for National Defense, and the Equipment Development Department of the Central Military Commission announced yesterday that the temporary measures initiated last year would be removed starting September.
The initial controls, announced on July 31st last year and taking effect from September 1st, were set for a maximum of two years. They targeted drones capable of flying beyond the pilot’s line of sight, with a maximum flight time of over 30 minutes, a maximum takeoff weight of over 7kg, and those equipped with throwing functions or hyperspectral cameras. Drones with laser rangefinders exceeding certain specifications were also included in the controls.
However, the Ministry of Commerce clarified that export controls on drone engines, infrared cameras, radars, and wireless communication equipment, which were put in place last September, will remain effective. Also, drones not specifically listed on the export control or temporary control lists are still prohibited from being exported if the exporter is aware, or should be aware, that they might be used for the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorist activities, or military purposes.
The United States has been sensitive to Chinese drones, sanctioning Chinese companies for allegedly supporting Russia’s drone development amid the Ukraine invasion. Some believe that China’s drone export controls since last September have made it difficult for Russia to procure drones, and this new measure might ease Russia’s access to Chinese drones.
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