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Why might the U.S. ban DJI drones?

Answer: For the same reason it wants to ban TikTok.

Closeup of the DJI Inspire drone.
DJI Inspire drone
Shutterstock/Valentin Valkov
The short-form video app is not the only Chinese-based company facing the chopping block in the U.S. A bill making its way through Congress now would, if passed, enact a ban on drones made by DJI.

The concern, in a nutshell, lies in the fact that since DJI is a Chinese company, it could be required to hand over user data to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). U.S. lawmakers have passed a bill that could ban TikTok as soon as next year for similar reasons. The drone ban bill, known as the Countering CCP Drones Act, passed in the U.S. House last week and is now headed for the Senate.

The problem, however, is that DJI’s drones are among the best in the business. The company’s devices regularly appear at the top of best consumer drones lists for their superior build and onboard technology. They have a wide range of offerings, from affordable, compact models to high-end packages with advanced capabilities. They’re simply a stalwart of the industry, and unless a U.S. company comes along that can compete, banning their products here will likely disappoint many.