China Drone Sales Slump as Police Tighten Grip on Unauthorized Flights
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A resident flies a drone on a street in Yichang, Hubei province, on Dec. 21, 2025. Photo: VCG
A sweeping crackdown on unauthorized drone use in China is shaking the consumer market, with hobbyists facing fines and drone makers reporting a sharp decline in sales.
On social media, users have been posting copies of administrative penalty notices issued by police for “illegal flights,” typically carrying fines between 200 yuan and 500 yuan ($29 to $71). In some cases, drones were confiscated.
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- China’s enforcement of new drone regulations since January 2024 includes fines, confiscation, real-name registration, and stricter police monitoring.
- Drone sales dropped nearly 50% since mid-2025, with manufacturers reducing inventory and research spending.
- The tougher rules limit urban drone flights, require permits, and classify illegal drone use as a public security offense with possible detention.
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Who’s Who
- Geovis Technology Co. Ltd.
- Chen Wei, a senior vice president at Geovis Technology Co. Ltd., noted at a December forum that China's Ministry of Public Security has assumed sole responsibility for enforcing drone regulations. This shift replaces a previously fragmented system, suggesting future oversight will be stricter.
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What Happened When
- January 2024：
- The Interim Regulations on the Flight Management of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles took effect, requiring drone operators in China to register under their real names, obtain flight permits, and comply with airspace controls.
- Since mid-2025：
- Drone sales have fallen sharply compared to the same period a year earlier, as reported by Shenzhen industry sources.
- December 2025：
- Chen Wei, a senior VP at Geovis Technology Co. Ltd., stated at a forum that the Ministry of Public Security has assumed sole responsibility for enforcing drone rules.
- January 1, 2026：
- Revisions to the Law on Penalties for Administration of Public Security took effect, classifying illegal drone use as a public security offense with possible detention.
- January 6, 2026：
- The public security bureau in Shangyu district of Shaoxing, Zhejiang province, announced the creation of a special unit for low-altitude drone patrol and countermeasures.
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