FCC Moves to Retroactively Ban DJI-Linked Products in First Use of New Authority
The Federal Communications Commission is taking aggressive action against what it describes as "DJI front companies" suspected of circumventing restrictions on Chinese-made drone technology.
Last October, the FCC gave itself the authority to retroactively ban gadgets that had already received approval to be imported and sold in the United States. Now, the agency is deploying this power for the first time.
Two weeks ago, the FCC proposed a $25,000 fine against eight front companies, including those behind Skyrover drones and Xtra cameras. The latest action goes further—the FCC is now seeking to ban these companies entirely from selling their products in the US market.
The targeted companies are accused of disguising Chinese-made drone technology, specifically DJI products, to bypass existing foreign drone bans. The FCC alleges these front companies have been operating as shell entities to circumvent regulations designed to restrict certain Chinese technology in American markets.
This enforcement action represents a significant escalation in the US government's efforts to restrict Chinese-made drones and surveillance equipment, using newly established regulatory authority to reach products already approved for sale.