New Regulations for Procuring Drones from China: A Guide for International Buyers

In a significant move to uphold national security and interests, China has introduced new export control measures for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, and related items.

 

Understanding China's Export Control Policies for Drones and Related Items

In a significant move to uphold national security and interests, China has introduced new export control measures for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, and related items. The new regulations, announced by the Ministry of Commerce along with other Chinese authorities on July 31, 2023, aim to streamline the export process while ensuring that sensitive technologies do not fall into the wrong hands.

 

Key Highlights of China's Drone Export Policy:

Export Control on Specific Drone Items: China has imposed export controls on certain categories of drones and related items, including aviation engines with a continuous power output exceeding 16 kilowatts, specific payload equipment such as infrared imaging devices and synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and laser devices for target indication.

Temporary Export Control on Consumer Drones: For consumer-grade drones with a flight endurance of 30 minutes or more and a maximum takeoff weight exceeding 7 kilograms or an airframe weight exceeding 4 kilograms, temporary export controls will be in place for up to two years.

Export Licensing Procedures: International buyers must go through a licensing procedure, which involves submitting an application through provincial commerce departments to the Ministry of Commerce, along with a series of documents including export contracts, technical descriptions, end-user and end-use certifications, and identity proofs of the applicants.

National Security Review: Exports that significantly impact national security require approval from the State Council after review by the Ministry of Commerce and relevant departments.

Issuance of Export Licenses: Upon approval, the Ministry of Commerce will issue dual-use item and technology export licenses.

Customs Supervision: Exporters must present the export license to customs, handle customs procedures according to the "Customs Law of the People's Republic of China," and accept customs supervision.

Penalties for Violations: Exporters who export without permission or exceed the scope of the license will face administrative penalties, and criminal responsibility will be pursued if a crime is constituted.

 

Procurement Process for International Buyers:

Identify the Drone Specifications: Ensure that the drone meets the export control criteria as outlined in the new regulations.

Engage with Authorized Chinese Suppliers: Work with suppliers who have a proven track record of compliance with Chinese export laws.

Understand the Licensing Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the documents and procedures required for obtaining an export license.

Submit a Comprehensive Application: Prepare and submit a detailed application, including all necessary documentation, to the relevant Chinese authorities.

Await Approval and Obtain License: Once the application is reviewed and approved, receive the export license from the Ministry of Commerce.

Coordinate with Customs: Use the export license to complete customs procedures and ensure the shipment of the drones.

 

China's Commitment to International Trade:

The Chinese government emphasizes that these export controls are not a ban on exports but a measured approach to ensure that drone technology is used responsibly and for legitimate civilian purposes. China continues to support its enterprises in conducting international trade and cooperation in the civilian use of drones.

For international buyers interested in procuring drones from China, it is crucial to navigate these new regulations with the help of an experienced advisor like Mulland Supply to ensure a smooth and compliant transaction. With China's Unmanned Aerial Vehicle export policy serving as a blueprint for responsible trade, the global market can expect a more secure and regulated supply of advanced drone technologies.