US Commerce Department Revokes Plan to Restrict Chinese Drones, Easing Trade Tensions.

January 10, 2026 at 06:27 PM•3 min read

The US Commerce Department revoked its plan to restrict Chinese-made drones, a move that eases US-China trade tensions and avoids undercutting major unmanned aircraft makers like DJI.

Key Points

1The US Commerce Department withdrew its proposed rule to restrict Chinese-made drones on Friday, January 9, 2026, citing a desire to ease US-China trade tensions ahead of a planned summit.
2The decision avoids a broader ban that would have undercut major unmanned aircraft makers like DJI, which holds over 70% of the global commercial drone market share.
3The reversal contrasts with a standing FCC ban from December 2025 that still blocks the import and sale of new Chinese drone models, including from DJI and Autel, over national security concerns.
4The restrictions create significant challenges for US commercial operators, as up to 97% of surveyed fleets use DJI drones, with many lacking a suitable FCC-approved alternative.

The US Commerce Department has withdrawn a proposed rule. This rule would have restricted Chinese-made drones and components. The reversal was posted as a low-key update on Friday. This decision follows months of interagency review. It is seen as a move to ease US-China trade tensions.

This action comes ahead of a planned summit. President Trump and President Xi Jinping will meet in April. Analysts suggest the move supports the existing trade framework. Ali Wyne of the International Crisis Group noted this. He said it highlights President Trump's trade-centric view.

China's embassy in Washington responded. A spokesman urged the US to lengthen cooperation. He called on the US to correct "erroneous practices."

Background on Drone Restrictions

The proposed rule was meant to address national security concerns. The Commerce Department sought input in January 2025. It cited threats from China and Russia. These threats could allow remote access to devices. This could expose sensitive U.S. data. The restrictions targeted leading unmanned aircraft makers like DJI and Autel.

China dominates the commercial drone market. Shenzhen-based DJI holds over 70% of the global market share. This dominance creates supply chain concerns for the Pentagon.

The FCC's Separate Action

The Commerce Department's reversal follows a related action. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) acted in December 2025. The FCC barred imports of new foreign-made drones. This was done by adding them to the "Covered List." The ban was based on a White House determination. It cited unacceptable risks to national security.

However, the FCC later announced a partial rollback. On Wednesday, the agency exempted certain drones. These include those on the Department of Defence's "Blue List." They also exempted drones meeting "Buy American" standards. This exemption is temporary, lasting until 2027.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr welcomed the DOD's work. He said it would restore US airspace sovereignty. He stated the goal is to unleash American drone dominance. However, the core ban on new models from Chinese makers like DJI still persists.

Impact on Commercial Aviation

The drone industry relies heavily on Chinese technology. Surveys show that up to 97% of commercial fleets use at least one DJI drone. Many operators have no approved alternative. The restrictions pose a significant challenge. They could force some businesses to close.

The US Commerce Department (Commerce Department) decision provides some relief. It avoids a broader, more comprehensive ban. However, the FCC's Covered List still blocks new foreign models. This creates uncertainty for operators. They need new equipment for critical tasks. These include agriculture and public safety. The situation highlights the complexity of balancing trade and security. This is a key issue in commercial aviation news and the drone sector. The FAA continues to regulate the national airspace. The US seeks to foster a domestic drone industry. This effort is critical for future technology. For more on this and other industry developments, visit flying.flights.