The US Federal Communications Commission has voted to close loopholes allowing sales of technology deemed a national security risk, targeting Chinese firms like DJI. With a December 23 deadline approaching, DJI warns that without a security audit, its drones could face an automatic sales ban in the US. Existing owners would remain unaffected by the restrictions on new purchases.
In late October, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) unanimously voted 3-0 to eliminate regulatory gaps that permit the sale of products considered threats to national security. This move paves the way for restrictions on DJI, a leading Chinese drone manufacturer, akin to those imposed on Huawei. The US government has classified DJI as a security concern, and a separate review targets TP-Link routers.
DJI highlighted the urgency in an Instagram post, noting the December 23 deadline under the National Defense Authorization Act. Without completing an audit by year's end, the company's products could be automatically barred from the US market. A DJI representative explained to CNET that while the FCC's recent rule change does not yet directly apply, the impending NDAA provision would list Chinese entities like DJI without evidence of misconduct or appeal opportunities.
Adam Welsh, DJI's head of global policy, emphasized the firm's willingness to undergo scrutiny. "More than 10 months have now passed with no sign that the process has begun," he stated. Welsh added, "The US government has every right to strengthen national security measures, but this must go hand in hand with due process, fairness, and transparency." DJI is pressing for the audit to commence or for an extension.
The proposed ban would affect only future sales, leaving current DJI drone owners able to continue using their devices legally. However, federal agencies are already barred from acquiring or operating drones from Chinese companies. Despite their popularity—DJI models topped CNET's best drones list for 2025—newer products like the Mavic 4 Pro are unavailable in the US, and many models are currently sold out at retailers due to inventory shortages.
