Leading Chinese drone maker DJI is at risk of losing its US market by year‐end, where it once captured more than 70% of the commercial drone sector, unless a mandated security audit occurs, Bloomberg is reporting.
Despite mounting pressure, DJI’s appeals fall on deaf ears in Washington, leaving the company scrambling to make its case.
Efforts to engage US policymakers have ramped up in recent months. DJI has deployed an Australia‑based executive to the capital and mobilized a network of lobbyists, all to no avail. Emails and calls requesting dialogue remain unanswered, intensifying concerns that time is running out.
At the heart of the crisis is a clause in the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act. It mandates a national security review of foreign-made drones like DJI before December 23. Failure to initiate the audit by that date triggers automatic listing on the Federal Communications Commission’s “Covered List,” effectively banning new DJI models from being sold in the US.
DJI insists it welcomes rigorous, evidence-based scrutiny, confident that its technology—including features like Local Data Mode—is secure. The company warns that a ban rooted in procedure rather than proven risk would harm American businesses, emergency services, farmers, and countless users.
Meanwhile, supply chain disruptions and customs enforcement already cloud DJI’s outlook. The United States Customs and Border Protection has reportedly held shipments citing forced‑labor concerns, leaving many US retailers and consumers scrambling amid nearly empty shelves. The FCC has also paused new equipment authorizations for DJI products, further constraining availability.
In response, companies like Anzu Robotics have emerged offering nearly identical models manufactured outside China, signaling how DJI’s competitors are preparing for a possible fallout
As the December deadline nears, the drone industry is on pins. Whether this becomes a momentary disruption or marks a major shift in drone regulation will depend on whether Washington finally opens its door, and whether DJI manages to make its case heard.
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