New US tariffs of up to 100% took effect on Thursday targeting drones and certain components, reflecting a push by Washington to reduce import reliance in an industry dominated by China.
US President Donald Trump signed an order establishing the duties in August, citing the national security threat posed by foreign drone imports and the goal of boosting domestic supply chains.
As demonstrated by the war in Ukraine, unmanned aerial systems have become critical to modern warfare and surveillance. US officials argue that heavy reliance on Chinese-made drones and parts—predominantly produced by market leader “DJI”—leaves military operations and critical infrastructure vulnerable to disruption, espionage, and battlefield disadvantage.
Under the measures, a 100% tariff applies to drones with a takeoff weight exceeding 25 kilograms, units equipped with thermal imaging capabilities, and docking stations. Smaller unmanned systems face a 25% duty, while less sensitive components will become subject to duties on 9 February next year, according to Euronews article.
Beijing strongly opposed the measures, urging Washington to reverse the decision. A commerce ministry spokesperson stated that the duties would disrupt the global drone supply chain and undermine a fair and competitive market environment. Founded in 2006, “DJI” has secured over two-thirds of the global drone market in recent years, though it has faced US restrictions on access to technology since 2022 due to alleged links to China’s military, a designation the company has contested.
