China imposes unprecedented restrictions on the export of UAV components: what it means for Ukraine
Kyiv • UNN
China is introducing new restrictions on the export of key components for the production of UAVs to the United States and Europe. This could significantly affect the production of drones in Ukraine, as China controls 80% of the component market.
China has begun to reduce the supply of important components for the production of drones to Europe and the United States, which could negatively affect Ukraine's defense capabilities.
Reports UNN with reference to Bloomberg.
Details
China has begun cutting supplies of key components for drones (including civilian ones) - for both American and European companies.
According to Bloomberg, there is speculation that the relevant steps are a prelude to broader export restrictions on drone parts. Beijing will put them into effect in the new year, sources say.
According to one of the interlocutors, these rules can take the form of licensing permits based on the intended use of components or more lenient requirements for Chinese companies to notify the government of their supply plans.
In July 2024, China announced a ban on the export of drones for military use, while Beijing claims that it does not supply weapons to any of the parties to the conflict. But European officials say Chinese companies are developing attack drones for Russia's aggressive actions, particularly Russia's war in Ukraine.
Bloomberg recalls that the trade conflict between the West and China escalated this month when Washington restricted sales of high-bandwidth memory chips and additional semiconductor equipment to China.
In response, Beijing banned the sale of dual-use goods to the US military,as well as several high-tech and military-grade materials to American companies.
Measures taken weeks before Donald Trump returns to the presidency with a tough agenda for China have led to a sharp rise in prices.
China's embargo on drone components will affect UAV production in Ukraine
Western countries are trying to build and assemble drones outside of China to secure their supply chains. But the PRC remains the center of production of cheap equipment for these devices. According to a report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies, China controls almost 80% of the commercial drone market.
Many UAV manufacturers in Ukraine rely on Chinese components to produce cheap and effective weapons, which have become crucial in countering Russian aggression.
