China to restrict exports of drone and supercomputer technology

China will be stricter on the export of technology intended to make drones or supercomputers. The new rules are set in the context of state security, but would not affect commercial drones.

The Chinese government has released a statement about the new rules, various media reported, including The Wall Street Journal. From August 15, the export of technology for the development of drones or supercomputers will be curtailed. From that date, Chinese manufacturers must apply for a special export license to be able to supply their products to other countries.

According to China, the new rules are in the interest of state security. For example, drones could pose a threat if the technology comes into the hands of parties that are in conflict with China. Also, the restrictions should provide an incentive for China’s technology industry.

The restrictions mainly relate to drones that can fly autonomously for more than an hour, reach heights of up to 1.5 kilometers and can withstand bad weather. As a result, it appears to be mainly drones that can be used for espionage purposes. Simple, commercially available drones such as those made by the DJI company would fall outside the new rules. When it comes to supercomputers, China imposes restrictions on chips that can perform calculations of at least 8 teraflops.