September 6, 2025 (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – The U.S. Department of Commerce is preparing to introduce new restrictions on the import of Chinese-made drones, citing growing national security concerns over potential data collection and surveillance risks. The move marks the latest step in Washington’s ongoing effort to curb the influence of Chinese technology in critical sectors.

“The U.S. government has an obligation to protect our airspace and digital infrastructure,” said Gina Raimondo, U.S. Secretary of Commerce. “These measures ensure that American consumers, companies, and government agencies use drones that meet our highest security and privacy standards.”

The planned restrictions would reportedly target drone imports from major Chinese manufacturers, including DJI, which dominates more than 70% of the global consumer drone market. While the rules have not yet been finalized, sources indicate that the Commerce Department is considering limits on federal and state agency purchases, as well as commercial use in sensitive sectors such as energy, transportation, and defense.

The move comes amid rising bipartisan concern in Washington that Chinese-made drones could transmit sensitive aerial data back to China, potentially compromising U.S. security interests. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have both raised warnings in recent years about data vulnerabilities linked to foreign-manufactured unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).

Industry experts caution that a sweeping ban could disrupt sectors heavily reliant on drone technology—such as agriculture, construction, and filmmaking—where DJI and other Chinese brands have become industry standards due to their affordability and reliability.

“A sudden restriction could slow innovation and create cost barriers for smaller businesses,” noted Evan Brooks, a technology analyst at AeroPolicy Group. “However, it may also open the door for U.S. and allied drone makers to scale up production and compete more effectively.”

The proposed regulations form part of a broader U.S. strategy to strengthen domestic manufacturing and reduce dependence on Chinese technology. The National Security Innovation Council is expected to release additional guidelines by late 2025 outlining steps to encourage investment in homegrown drone production and cybersecurity compliance.

As discussions continue, U.S. officials emphasize that the goal is not to stifle drone innovation but to ensure trust and transparency in how aerial data is collected, stored, and shared.