The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has carved out targeted exemptions from its sweeping drone import ban, allowing select foreign-manufactured drones and components to remain in the US market, while reinforcing its hardline stance against Chinese suppliers, reports Caixin.
The exemptions, announced January 7, refine a broader prohibition imposed in December 2025 over national security concerns. The new rules enable drone makers from allied nations to access the US market, further isolating China’s dominant drone industry.
Under the adjustment, certain drone models and components will be exempt from the ban and may continue to be sold in the US through January 1, 2027. The FCC had previously listed all foreign-made drones on its Covered List as of December 22, 2025, citing unacceptable risks to national security and the safety of US personnel.