DJI Reports US Customs Is Blocking Drone Imports

DJI has communicated to The Verge that it is currently unable to freely import certain drones into the United States. Consequently, its latest consumer drone, the Air 3S, will not be available for retail purchase in the U.S.

A spokesperson from DJI stated, "A customs-related issue is hindering DJI’s ability to import select drones into the United States." The issue is not the result of a sudden ban by the U.S.; rather, DJI suggests it is due to a broader initiative by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to scrutinize the origins of products, particularly those made in China.

DJI has recently sent a letter to distributors, citing that U.S. Customs and Border Protection is using the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) as a reason for halting some of its imports. In this letter, which has circulated across various drone sites and forums like Reddit, DJI asserts that it does not employ any forced labor in its manufacturing processes. Reuters has confirmed the legitimacy of this letter after its dissemination.

In a blog post, DJI has described the situation as a "misunderstanding" and is in the process of providing documentation to U.S. Customs, demonstrating that its manufacturing does not occur in China’s Xinjiang region. The company affirms compliance with U.S. laws and international standards and notes audits conducted by U.S. retailers of its supply chain. DJI states that its manufacturing facilities are based in Shenzhen and Malaysia.

A request for comment was sent to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, but there has been no response.

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a bill that would essentially ban DJI drones from importation into the U.S. However, this measure would also need Senate approval. The Senate previously removed the DJI ban from the must-pass 2025 National Defense Authorization Act. Nonetheless, the ban has been reintroduced as an amendment and could still be incorporated into the final bill.

The customs issue primarily affects DJI’s enterprise and agricultural drones and has restricted the company from offering the Air 3S to U.S. customers through any platform other than DJI.com. DJI is working with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to resolve the situation and remains hopeful for a swift resolution.

Previously, the U.S. government placed restrictions on DJI drones, but not in a manner preventing retail sales or consumer purchases. The Department of Commerce’s "entity list" has blocked U.S. companies from exporting technology to DJI, and there have been limitations on certain government entities purchasing DJI drones.

If Congress eventually bans DJI imports, existing owners might still be able to use their drones. However, the proposed law would prevent the FCC from authorizing DJI devices with radios for use in the U.S., which would effectively halt all future imports.

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