BEIJING / RankWire.AI / – On Wednesday, China introduced new measures in response to recent US actions, including tighter restrictions on drone exports. The country also limited interactions with seven American entities. These regulations went into effect on August 5, following US-imposed technology and import restrictions. China’s Ministry of Commerce stated that controlled drones, vital components, and related technologies will be subjected to more stringent export reviews directed at the US. These regulations apply to items already encompassed by China’s dual-use export control framework. Importantly, they do not constitute a comprehensive ban on all Chinese drone exports to the US market.
Exporters are now required to obtain approval for each shipment of covered items instead of relying on streamlined licensing processes. Authorities will assess the products, end users, and intended applications under existing export control regulations. This order targets unmanned aerial vehicles, significant components, and technologies that meet China’s thresholds for controlled items. China already regulates specific drone engines, communication devices, sensors, and anti-drone systems. Additionally, civilian drones are prohibited from export if intended for military use. The new policies tighten scrutiny specifically on controlled items destined for the United States.
Furthermore, Beijing has prohibited Chinese organizations and individuals from engaging in transactions or cooperation with six US entities. The list includes Applied DNA Sciences, Stratum Reservoir, Altana Technologies, the Responsible Business Alliance, Verité Group, and Human Rights in China. Chinese authorities accused these organizations of supporting US restrictions related to alleged forced labor in Xinjiang. An additional order also bans Compliance Testing LLC from conducting business. China explained that the Arizona-based testing firm had supported Federal Communications Commission measures affecting Chinese tech companies.
Expansion of Export Controls Beyond Drones
China has also initiated a national security investigation into imported office equipment that contains foreign-developed system software. The probe covers imported printers, copiers, and multifunction devices that utilize foreign drivers or embedded software. Officials indicated that the review will evaluate import dependency, domestic demand, supply chains, and potential impacts on national security interests. The Ministry of Commerce may deploy questionnaires, hold hearings, conduct site visits, or commission investigations. The inquiry is expected to conclude within 12 months, though Chinese law allows extensions under special circumstances.
In addition, China suspended arrangements allowing US certification bodies to perform follow-up factory inspections for its mandatory product certification program. The State Administration for Market Regulation announced that designated Chinese organizations can no longer assign such inspections to American firms. This change impacts the inspection process responsible for maintaining China Compulsory Certification for relevant products. Manufacturers may need to find alternative approved inspection bodies. The order does not revoke existing certifications or ban all US products from entering China.
Response to US Policy Actions
Beijing linked these measures to recent actions by the Federal Communications Commission and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The FCC has restricted approvals for new foreign-made drones and key components entering the US market, with some exceptions granted for select toy drones and certain models. Additionally, on July 31, US authorities added 43 Chinese entities to the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act list. Goods associated with these entities face a legal presumption against clearance into the US under the law.
Chinese officials described the countermeasures as moderate and urged Washington to withdraw the measures cited by Beijing. The regulations took effect immediately, with the exception of the office equipment investigation, which began on the same day. No individual drone manufacturers were named, nor was an outright ban on all drone exports to the US imposed. Instead, stricter licensing is now required for controlled drones, components, and technologies. The restrictions currently apply only to the seven US entities named, while the office equipment review remains ongoing.