DJI Drone Imports Face U.S. Scrutiny, Driving Up Prices — What’s Next in 2025?

By JOSE J. FIGUEROA, DroneNIT Report
May 3, 2025

Washington, D.C. — A growing standoff over national security and trade policy has placed DJI, the world’s largest drone manufacturer, at the center of U.S. import restrictions, disrupting consumer access and causing a spike in drone prices across the country.

In late 2024 and into early 2025, U.S. regulators expanded import restrictions on DJI drones, citing concerns over data security and alleged ties between DJI and the Chinese government. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Department of Commerce have both taken steps to tighten rules, including placing DJI on an entity list that limits U.S. companies from doing business with it, and restricting access to certain U.S.-made components like chips and sensors.

As a result, shipments of DJI drones to the U.S. have slowed considerably. Retailers report as much as a 30% price increase on popular models such as the DJI Mini series and the Mavic 3 Pro, with some models even becoming temporarily unavailable.

Why DJI?

DJI accounts for an estimated 70% of the global drone market and over 75% of U.S. consumer and professional drone sales. Their drones are widely used not only by hobbyists and filmmakers but also by emergency responders, surveyors, and infrastructure inspectors. Many of these users now face supply constraints or inflated costs.

The U.S. government’s position is largely rooted in data privacy and geopolitical risk. Officials argue that drones manufactured by DJI could potentially transmit sensitive flight data to servers in China. DJI has repeatedly denied these claims, stating that users have full control over their data and that data localization features can prevent external transmission.

Industry Impact

The restrictions have affected more than just DJI. Smaller U.S. drone companies, which depend on DJI components or compete indirectly with the company, are also feeling the pinch. Meanwhile, the limited availability of drones is beginning to slow progress in industries that rely heavily on aerial imaging and automation.

Retailers like Best Buy and B&H Photo have scaled back their drone inventories, and professional users have started looking to alternatives—many of which come at a higher price or offer lower performance.

Possible Solutions for 2025

To stabilize prices and ensure continued access to drone technology, several paths forward are being explored:

1. Policy Clarity and Negotiation: If DJI and U.S. regulators can reach a data-handling agreement, possibly through third-party audits or localized data storage requirements, some restrictions might be lifted, easing supply chain pressure.

2. Domestic Innovation and Incentives: The U.S. government has proposed new funding for American drone startups under the CHIPS and Science Act, aiming to reduce reliance on Chinese imports. However, it could take years for domestic competitors to reach DJI’s scale and efficiency.

3. Import Diversification: Retailers and users may turn to non-DJI brands like Autel Robotics (also Chinese), Skydio (U.S.), or Parrot (France), although availability and feature parity remain issues.

4. Consumer Education and Refurbished Market Expansion: As demand outpaces supply, the refurbished drone market may grow. Companies may also offer extended warranties and service plans to keep older models in circulation longer.

Looking Ahead

While the U.S. remains firm on tech-related security policies, 2025 may bring increased diplomatic engagement on tech supply chains. Whether that results in a thaw for DJI imports remains uncertain. For now, consumers and professionals alike should brace for a drone market defined by limited options, rising prices, and slow adaptation—unless policymakers and the private sector can align on a sustainable path forward.