USA Lifts Ban on Imports of Chinese Drones Introduced in December 2025

The US Department of Commerce has withdrawn a proposed rule that would have imposed new restrictions on imports of Chinese-made drones.

This is stated in a government announcement published on January 9, according to Defence Blog.

According to documents published on the federal website, the Department of Commerce sent a draft rule to the White House on October 8, but withdrew it last Thursday.

The initiative was introduced in September as part of an effort to protect the information and communications technology supply chain from risks posed by Chinese drone manufacturers.

“This decision underscores President Trump’s commitment to preserving the trade framework he and President Xi agreed to in October and ensuring a friendly atmosphere during his April visit to Beijing,” said Ali Wein, senior adviser at the International Crisis Group.

As a reminder, at the end of December 2025, the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) decided to ban the import and sale of new foreign-made drone models, including popular Chinese brands DJI and Autel, due to ‘unacceptable national security risks’.

According to the FCC’s decision, new drone models and spare parts from foreign manufacturers cannot receive the necessary certification.

According to US regulators, such systems pose a risk to the safety of US citizens.

The ban does not apply to drones that have already been purchased and used in the country.

The regulator motivated this step by protecting critical infrastructure and US airspace, in particular in the context of preparations for major international events in 2026-2028, when the risks of unauthorized use of unmanned systems are growing.

Because of this decision, the Ministry of Commerce, People’s Republic of China called on Washington to immediately remove foreign drones from the Covered List, calling the decision ‘erroneous’ and harmful to the legitimate interests of Chinese enterprises.

In addition, Chinese manufacturers, including DJI, expressed disappointment with the FCC’s decision. They emphasize the lack of open evidence of threats that could justify the restrictions, accusing the US side of protectionism and unclear security assessment criteria.