BEIJING BANS DRONE SALES AMID GLOBAL DEMAND

The ban restricts residents and businesses from purchasing, moving, or storing drones within Beijing's city limits. Officials have not publicly detailed the reasoning behind the measure, though the restrictions apply broadly across the capital. The policy comes as Chinese drone makers—particularly DJI—command significant market share worldwide. DJI holds roughly 70% of the global consumer drone market, with its products used extensively in agriculture, photography, surveying, and recreational applications. China has previously cited security concerns when implementing drone restrictions in specific areas. The Beijing ban's scope and enforcement mechanisms remain unclear. The measure underscores tensions between Beijing's domestic restrictions and its commercial interests abroad. Chinese drone exports have faced scrutiny from Western governments concerned about data security and surveillance capabilities, yet sales continue to grow.