China has announced a ban on the export of all civilian drones that can be used for military purposes or in terrorist activities.
This move comes amid growing Western criticism of Beijing's stance on the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated that the decision aims to prevent the use of drones in the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
The ministry added that certain drone capabilities, such as infrared imaging equipment, laser target designators, and high-precision measurement tools, will be placed on an export control list.
The ministry noted that it will lift temporary restrictions previously imposed on civilian drones.
While the specific models were not mentioned, China had restricted exports of long-range drones last year. The new regulations will take effect on September 1.
American media and intelligence reports have repeatedly indicated that Russia has purchased drones from China for military purposes.
US officials, speaking to the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue, said that Chinese drone sales to Russia have increased since the onset of the war in Ukraine. Both countries are reportedly working on joint drone production in Russia.
Drones have become an integral part of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, China is the fourth largest arms exporter in the world, following the United States, France, and Russia.
The institute's data shows that the majority of Chinese arms exports go to Pakistan, followed by countries in Asia and Africa.
US security officials have expressed growing concerns over the use of Chinese drones. DJI Technology, a Chinese company, is one of the largest drone manufacturers globally, with its products widely used around the world.