On Wednesday, May 15th, Republican members of the United States House of Representatives introduced legislation to increase tariffs on imported Chinese-made drones by 30% and to ban the import of drones containing key components manufactured in China until 2030.
According to Reuters, the legislation drafted by Congresswoman Elise Stefanik also includes a new funding program for emergency responders, critical infrastructure providers, farmers, and ranchers to assist in purchasing drones made in the United States.
The proposal initially raises tariffs on Chinese-made drones by 30%, with a yearly increase of 5%. The bill has garnered support from the House Subcommittee on China, led by Chairman John Moolennar.
Stefanik stated that the bill aims to boost the competitiveness of American drone manufacturers by establishing a funding program to help Americans purchase drones made securely in the United States and by its allies.
In March of this year, a bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers called on the Biden administration to impose higher tariffs on Chinese drones, including those exported from other countries, and to implement new incentives to foster the development of American drone manufacturers.
Lawmakers urged immediate action against Chinese drone manufacturers, including DJI and Autel, stating that the current 25% tariff on Chinese drones is insufficient to address the surge in imports.
They noted that Chinese drone companies hold over 77% of the U.S. hobbyist drone market and over 90% of the commercial drone market.
On October 5, 2022, the U.S. Department of Defense announced a second round of blacklisting Chinese companies with ties to the military, including drone giant DJI.
In March, DJI opposed restrictions based on the country of origin, asserting strict adherence to data privacy laws and regulations applicable in the United States and elsewhere they operate.
In November of last year, the House Committee on China and other lawmakers called on the Biden administration to investigate and sanction Autel Robotics, seeking legislation to prohibit the U.S. government from purchasing Chinese drones.
In 2019, the U.S. Congress banned the Pentagon from buying or using Chinese-made drones and components.