DJI Drone Ban Battle Escalates Amid U.S. Security Fears

Industry Insights from Next Move Strategy Consulting

Chinese drone Manufacturer DJI Pushes Back Against U.S. Drone Ban Bill, Reaffirms Commitment to Data Security.

DJI Condemns Proposed U.S. Drone Ban as 'Xenophobic Fear' Amid Data Security Reassurances

Chinese drone manufacturer DJI has strongly criticized a U.S. bill seeking to ban the sale of its products, calling the move “baseless allegations and xenophobic fear.” The company reaffirmed its commitment to protecting user data amid growing political scrutiny.

The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed the National Defense Authorization Act, which includes the Countering CCP Drones Act—a measure that could restrict future DJI drone sales in the U.S. The legislation now moves to the Senate for amendments and final approval before heading to President Joe Biden for potential enactment.

U.S. Bill Targets DJI Over Security Concerns; Company Denies Allegations

• The drone bill, introduced by Congresswoman Elise Stefanik in 2023, aims to restrict DJI’s operations in the U.S.

• It proposes adding DJI to the Federal Communications Commission’s Covered List, which would prevent the company’s drones from accessing U.S. communications infrastructure.

• The legislation brands DJI a national security threat, citing concerns over data protection and the integrity of the U.S. supply chain.

• DJI has rejected the accusations, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding user data.

• The company noted that since 2017, its data security protocols have been reviewed and validated by multiple U.S. federal agencies and independent private sector firms.

DJI Faces Mounting U.S. Pressure Amid Past Sanctions and Allegations

The potential ban further intensifies the hurdles for DJI in one of its largest markets. The company has already been subject to U.S. export restrictions since 2020, when the Commerce Department accused it of involvement in the oppression of China’s Uygur minority and alleged ties to the Chinese military.

Additionally, in 2019, the U.S. Congress prohibited the Pentagon from purchasing or using drones and components made in China.

DJI Highlights Support for U.S. Small Businesses

In a statement, Shenzhen-based DJI, the world’s largest drone manufacturer, said its products have benefited small businesses across industries such as real estate and agriculture. The company reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring American users continue to have access to its technology.

Source: https://www.dji.com/media-center/

Prepared by: Next Move Strategy Consulting