Chinese authorities have introduced strict measures banning the sale, transport and storage of drones in Beijing, an unexpected move given that China has practically built the global market for commercial drones. The new rules came into force on May 1 and are part of a wider strategy to control the use of this technology.
According to the available information, the restrictions do not only cover the use, but the complete life cycle of the device. This means that the purchase, distribution, storage and use of drones are under control, thus introducing a preventive model of regulation instead of a subsequent reaction. Analysts believe authorities are testing a comprehensive approach that could become the basis for broader national regulations.
Market control and stricter supervision of users
Residents of Beijing have already faced restrictions when purchasing drones, as online platforms have blocked deliveries to addresses in the capital. At the same time, sellers were trying to sell off existing stocks before the new rules came into effect.
Local authorities are additionally tightening control through inspections at city entry points, where the entry of drones is checked. Existing warehouses within the wider city zone have limitations as it is allowed to store a maximum of three drones or ten key components, subject to a mandatory police check.
Exceptions exist for universities, research institutions and law enforcement agencies, while citizens who already own registered drones can transport them under certain conditions. In parallel with that, mandatory user registration under a real name, connection with a phone number and sending of flight data to competent institutions was introduced.
This level of control is already causing dissatisfaction among users, who report cases of quick police reactions after activating the drone, and even visits to home addresses due to previously registered devices. Analysts warn that overly strict enforcement may negatively affect the domestic market and reduce demand.
In a global context, the impact on companies like DJI will be limited, as Beijing accounts for a small portion of overall demand. However, broader challenges come from international markets, especially from the US, where regulatory hurdles have already begun to affect sales of new models, reports Ars Technica.