YDQA: Ep 117- "What’s Really Going On with DJI Drones in the US?"

In this episode of Your Drone Questions Answered, Chris dives into the current state of play with DJI drones in the U.S. — from the impact of the 2025 NDAA to the inconsistent enforcement of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act. Drawing on years of experience in drone distribution, Chris shares behind-the-scenes insights on customs delays, shipment inconsistencies, and what this could mean for drone buyers, businesses, and hobbyists alike.

We’ll cover:
-Why DJI shipments have been unpredictable since late 2024
-How U.S. customs enforcement is affecting availability of enterprise vs. consumer drones
-What the upcoming NDAA security review deadline means for future DJI models
-Practical advice for those considering a DJI purchase now vs. waiting
-The role of advocacy groups in shaping the future of drone access

If you use DJI drones for work or recreation, or are thinking about starting a drone business, this episode will help you understand the risks, timelines, and possible scenarios ahead.

📌 Resources Mentioned:
https://viewpoints.dji.com/blog/navigating-u.s.-customs-demonstrating-djis-commitment-to-ethical-production-labor-practices 

https://viewpoints.dji.com/blog/dont-ground-innovation-the-real-world-cost-of-banning-dji-in-the-u.s

https://droneadvocacyalliance.com/take-action/

* We apologize for the audio quality issues