# FCC Prepares to Ban DJI's Indirect Sales in the US Chinese drone maker's 'front companies' face retroactive import ban over security concerns. - **Source:** [The Verge (theverge.com)](https://www.theverge.com) - **Published:** 2026-07-20 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/393aadc7-73a5-48d0-9f93-67cf85f34a9a ## FCC's Retroactive Authority In October 2023, the FCC granted itself power to retroactively ban previously approved products. Now it's targeting 8 'front companies' allegedly helping Chinese DJI bypass US drone bans, including brands like Skyrover and Xtra. This marks the first use of this controversial authority. ## From Fines to Full Ban Two weeks after proposing $25,000 fines, the FCC escalates to complete import and sales bans on existing drones and cameras. Even FCC-approved products like Xtra's DJI Osmo Pocket 3 variant—currently on Amazon with next-day delivery—face removal from major retailers. ## Amazon Listings at Risk If enacted, the ban would erase products from Xtra's website and platforms like Amazon. Warehoused inventory in the US becomes worthless, though consumer-owned devices remain unaffected. The FCC opened a 30-day public comment period before finalizing the decision. ## Unproven Security Claims The FCC cites 'national security concerns' but provides no public evidence, nor explains why cameras fall under a drone ban. The agency's history of ignoring net neutrality comments and alleged cyberattack falsehoods raises transparency doubts about this process. ## Cutting Ties with Testing Lab The FCC severed relations with Chinese lab SGS-CSTC Shenzhen, which certified some DJI products. Under US rules, China's 15% stake constitutes 'control' for radio device approvals. This signals tighter restrictions for Chinese-linked certification bodies moving forward. ## Escalating Tech Cold War This move opens a new front in US-China tech tensions. DJI dominates 70% of the global drone market. The FCC's retroactive ban power could target other Chinese tech firms, marking a dangerous precedent in trade wars where products face post-approval prohibition. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.theverge.com/news/968310/fcc-dji-drone-camera-ban-skyrover-xtra — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._