China–U.S. Drone Sanctions and 100% Tariff Threats

Within just two days, Beijing and Washington each unveiled new sanctions that directly impact the global unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) industry. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has announced plans to impose up to 100% tariffs on Chinese-made products, adding new uncertainty to already tense U.S.-China technology and trade relations.

These developments mark a significant escalation in the global competition over drone technology, electronics, and advanced manufacturing.


China Adds 14 Foreign Entities to the “Unreliable Entity List”

On October 9, 2025, China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) issued Announcement No. 10 of 2025, placing several foreign defense and technology firms—mainly from the United States—on its Unreliable Entity List for actions deemed harmful to China’s sovereignty and security.

Entities Listed by China:

  1. Dedrone (by Axon)

  2. DZYNE Technologies

  3. Elbit Systems of America, LLC

  4. Epirus, Inc.

  5. AeroVironment, Inc.

  6. Exelis Inc.

  7. Alliant Techsystems Operations LLC

  8. BAE Systems, Inc.

  9. Teledyne FLIR, LLC

  10. VSE Corporation

  11. Cubic Global Defense

  12. Recorded Future, Inc.

  13. Halifax International Security Forum

  14. TechInsights Inc. and its subsidiaries:

  • TechInsights Europe Limited

  • TechInsights Europe Sp. z o.o.

  • TechInsights Japan KK

  • TechInsights USA Inc.

  • TechInsights Korea Co., Ltd.

  • TechInsights Market Analysis Limited

  • SARL Strategy Analytics

  • Strategy Analytics GmbH Market Research and Management Consulting

  • SARI Strategy Analytics Private Limited

Measures Enforced by China:

  • Ban on all import/export activities related to China.

  • Ban on new investment within China by these entities.

  • Prohibition for Chinese organizations or individuals to cooperate or share data with these entities.

MOFCOM stated that China’s policy “targets only a very small number of foreign entities that endanger national security,” and reaffirmed that law-abiding international businesses remain welcome in the Chinese market.


The U.S. Adds 26 Chinese Entities and 3 Hong Kong Addresses to Its Entity List

On October 8, 2025, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) added 26 entities and 3 Hong Kong addresses to its Entity List, citing activities “contrary to U.S. national security or foreign policy interests.”

The listed companies were accused of supplying or facilitating procurement of U.S.-origin components found in weaponized drones operated by Iran and its proxies.

Chinese Entities Added by the U.S.:

  1. Goodview Global / Goodview Global Ltd. / Shenzhen Goodview Global Industry Co., Ltd.

  2. Arrow China Electronics Trading Co., Ltd.

  3. Arrow Electronics (Hong Kong) Co., Ltd.

  4. Beijing Kevins Technology Development Co., Ltd.

  5. Beijing Plenary Technology Co., Ltd.

  6. Beijing Rageflight Technology Co., Ltd.

  7. Gansu Shuili Hoisting Equipment Co., Ltd.

  8. Jinan Xin Yin Bo Electronic Equipment Co., Ltd.

  9. Schmidt & Co., (HK) Ltd.

  10. Shandong Xin Yin Bo IOT Technology Co., Ltd.

  11. Shanghai Sisheng Power Control Technology Co., Ltd.

  12. Easy Fly Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd.

  13. Feng Bao Trading Hong Kong Ltd.

  14. Feng Bao Electronic Information Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.

  15. Shanghai Bitconn Electronics Co., Ltd.

  16. Shanghai Langqing Electronic Technology Co., Ltd.

Hong Kong Addresses Also Sanctioned:

  1. 14C, Hung Shui Kiu Main Street, Yuen Long, N.T., Hong Kong

  2. Room 1605A, Ho King Commercial Center, 2–16 Fa Yuen Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong

  3. Room 1605, Ho King Commercial Center, 2–16 Fa Yuen Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong

BIS announced that exports or reexports of any U.S.-origin items to these entities or locations now require special licenses, which will be reviewed under a “presumption of denial”. Most license exceptions are revoked.


Trump Administration Threatens 100% Tariffs on Chinese Imports

Adding to the tension, the Trump administration announced plans to impose up to 100% tariffs on Chinese products, covering a broad range of sectors—including electronics, drones, and aerospace components.

If enacted, this tariff package would significantly raise costs for U.S. importers, distributors, and end-users relying on Chinese-manufactured UAVs and components.

The administration claims the move aims to “rebalance trade” and “protect national industries,” but experts warn it could further disrupt global supply chains and inflate prices for American consumers.


AIRMOBI’s Statement on the Situation

AIRMOBI deeply regrets the growing tension between China and the United States in the drone and technology sectors.

As a responsible global company, AIRMOBI has always been committed to the peaceful and industrial development of UAV technology. Our drones and systems are used in over 30 countries and regions worldwide, serving agriculture, mapping, logistics, emergency response, and industrial inspection.

The United States has always been one of AIRMOBI’s most important markets. We highly value our American customers and partners and will continue to operate in full compliance with all applicable export regulations and local laws.

AIRMOBI strongly opposes the use of drones for military or terrorist purposes. We never export our products to countries or regions under war, conflict, or terrorism risk. Every shipment is thoroughly reviewed to ensure it meets legal and ethical standards.

We sincerely hope that China and the United States can maintain peaceful coexistence and open dialogue, allowing technology to serve humanity rather than become a tool of confrontation.


AIRMOBI’s Message to U.S. Customers: Plan Ahead for Tariff Risks

Given the potential 100% tariff proposal by the U.S. administration, AIRMOBI urges all American partners and clients to:

  1. Place orders as early as possible — before the new tariff policy officially takes effect.

  2. Confirm shipping schedules immediately to ensure delivery before tariff enforcement begins.

  3. Communicate with your freight forwarder and customs broker regarding possible tariff classification updates.

  4. Request certificates of origin and product documentation from AIRMOBI to facilitate customs clearance.

We are actively monitoring U.S. trade policy updates and will assist customers in minimizing potential tariff impacts through timely shipment arrangements and accurate documentation.


Looking Ahead

The simultaneous escalation of sanctions and tariff measures shows that the global UAV industry is entering an era of fragmentation and trade uncertainty.

However, AIRMOBI believes that innovation, transparency, and cooperation remain the foundation of sustainable growth. Despite geopolitical challenges, we will continue to develop safe, reliable, and compliant UAV solutions that help industries operate more efficiently and safely.

Our mission remains unchanged:
To make drones that serve people — not politics.