China revises drone export controls, with new rules due on 18 November

China announced revised export controls on specified drones, components and technologies on 19 October. The measures take effect on 18 November 2026 and require government authorisation for covered exports.

The announcement was issued jointly by the Ministry of Commerce, the General Administration of Customs and the Equipment Development Department of the Central Military Commission. The commerce ministry said the controlled items can serve civilian and military purposes, citing national security and non-proliferation obligations.

The list includes autopilots designed for unmanned aircraft, certain engines, radio communications equipment and technologies used to develop, produce or operate drones.

Among the covered aircraft are models capable of controlled flight beyond the operator’s natural line of sight. The criteria include endurance of at least 30 minutes but less than 3 hours combined with the ability to take off and maintain stable, controlled flight in gusts of at least 46.3 kilometres per hour. Aircraft in that category with endurance of at least 3 hours are also covered.

A separate category includes unmanned aircraft with a range of at least 300 kilometres. Selected flight-control, navigation, counter-drone and polar-drone technologies also fall within the revised framework.

The announcement allows simplified procedures for eligible exports and general licences for qualifying companies with effective compliance systems and established export records. The ministry said applications meeting the requirements would be approved.

China’s dual-use export control list will be updated when the measures take effect. Illegal exports, resale or diversion will be subject to liability under the law.