US Plans To Curb Imports of Chinese Drones and Vehicles
The US Commerce Department announced that it plans to curb imports of Chinese drones and medium-to heavy-duty vehicles. We’ll take a look at what they could be planning and how it will affect US importers and consumers.
What Is the Commerce Department’s Plan?
On September 5th, 2025, the US Commerce Department announced it will roll out rules that limit imports of Chinese drones and vehicles that weigh over 10,000 pounds. These rules are expected to take effect some time in August.
The Commerce Department believes the information and communication technology used in these drones and vehicles are a threat to national security.
Despite the Commerce Department’s announcement, they haven’t gone into much detail about what these rules will entail.
However, it’s likely they’ll build on previous US actions aimed at curbing certain Chinese imports into the country.
In early January, the Biden administration finalized regulations that will effectively bar the entry of Chinese cars and light trucks from entering the US by 2026.
The Commerce Department also said it could develop restrictions for drone systems, such as:
- Onboard computers
- Ground control stations
- Operating software and data storage
- Communications and flight control systems
President Trump signed two executive orders in June regarding drones. One order effectively prevents federal agencies and contractors from purchasing drones from companies that have ties to a foreign government.
The second mandated that the Federal Aviation Administration develop new rules that restrict drone flight over sensitive sites.
How Will This Affect US Importers and Consumers?
It’s hard to say how exactly the rules could affect importers since the Commerce Department’s new rules have yet to be released.
That said, importers will likely have to seek drones and vehicle suppliers that meet the stipulations set by the government.
If tariffs are implemented, which have been a hallmark of the current presidential administration, importers will have another expense to pay.
Businesses in the US will feel the impact of whatever restrictions are put in place as well.
Take the Chinese drone company, DJI, for example. They have an 85% share in the US drone market. Numerous sectors in the US use drones made by DJI and other companies.
This includes:
- Public Safety & Emergency Services
- Agriculture
- Surveying and Mapping
- Construction
- Environmental & Wildlife Conservation
Regulations that curb the importation of foreign made drones could hamper these sectors and lead importers to search for other alternatives.
How R+L Global Logistics Stays On Top of Trade
Although the Commerce Department has stated its new rules will be released this September, there’s still no confirmed date. When they are released, R+L Global Logistics will be ready. That’s because we have a skilled team dedicated to importing.
They follow all the latest regulations to provide our customers with the most relevant information they need for a successful importing experience. R+L Global Logistics also has an extensive network of carriers and warehouses. This allows us to ship and store freight for our customers all across the country.