China escalates restrictions on civilian drone operations

China has rolled out stricter regulations on drone use, citing concerns over illegal activities. The new measures impose additional licensing and operational hurdles, drawing criticism from drone operators who argue the rules excessively stifle legitimate usage. This crackdown signals Beijing's intent to exert tighter control over airspace amid rising security concerns. For a country that once dominated the global drone market, the restrictions reveal a deliberate pivot toward prioritizing state