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China expands export controls on drones with military potential
- Curbs will come into effect from September for a range of unmanned aerial vehicles
- The devices have been used by both sides in the Russian conflict in Ukraine
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China is imposing export restrictions on locally made drones that have potential for military applications.
From September, exporters will require government approval to send the devices overseas, according to an order released on Monday.
The order said the restrictions would also apply to products that enabled the “proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorist activities or military purposes”.
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The decision, announced by four agencies including customs and the Ministry of Commerce, was “to safeguard national security and interests”.
It was approved by the State Council and the top military decision-making body, the Central Military Commission (CMC).
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Crimea bridge 'emergency' caused by Ukrainian surface drones, Russia says
Crimea bridge 'emergency' caused by Ukrainian surface drones, Russia says
China is one of the world’s biggest makers of civilian drones, and some Chinese brands have been used in military conflicts around the world, including in Ukraine where they have been deployed by forces on both sides of the war.
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