Agricultural Spray Distributors Form Grassroots Group to Oppose Proposed Chinese Drone Ban
In response to legislative efforts aimed at banning drones manufactured by Chinese companies, a coalition of agricultural spray drone distributors has formed a grassroots industry group. This coalition, comprising Agri Spray Drones, Bestway Ag, Drone Nerds, HSE-UAV, Pegasus Robotics, and Rantizo, aims to represent, protect, and advocate for the interests of the agricultural industry in the use of spray drone technology. Together, they represent approximately 80% of the ag spray drone market in the U.S.
Legislative Concerns
Recent legislative proposals, such as H.R 2864, the Countering CCP Drones Act, which passed in the House version of the National Defense Authorization Act FY25 (NDAA), seek to limit the import and use of drones manufactured by Chinese companies due to security concerns. However, says the coalition, these proposals fail to consider other methods to address security issues while also avoiding the significant impact such bans would have on the agricultural industry.
The Vital Role of Spray Drones in Agriculture
The coalition points out that spray drones are a critical component of modern agricultural technology for several reasons:
- Optionality in Aerial Application: Drones offer an efficient solution in an industry facing increasing demand for aerial applications and a shortage of available plane and helicopter pilots. According to survey data collected by coalition members, in 2023 alone, 3.7 million acres were sprayed by drones across 41 states and over 50 types of crops, generating $78.5 million in rural communities.
- Job Creation in Rural America: Taylor Moreland, CEO of Agri Spray Drones, stated, “Spray drones create new job opportunities in rural areas where they previously did not exist.” A reasonable investment in a spray drone enables individuals to start a custom application business, supporting their families and contributing to the local economy.
- Support for Sustainable Agriculture: Spray drone technology allows farmers to employ precision farming techniques, reducing crop input usage and increasing yield opportunities. By delivering crop protection products precisely when and where needed, farmers can more efficiently control weed, pest, and disease pressures.
Addressing Security Concerns
The coalition supports efforts to create cybersecurity standards and regulations to protect vital data across all drones, regardless of their country of origin. This approach aims to address security concerns while preserving the technological advancements and economic benefits that spray drones provide to the agricultural sector. Bryan Sanders, President of HSE-UAV, noted, “There has been no factual evidence suggesting that data collected by agricultural drones is being provided to the Chinese government. On the contrary, companies like DJI have proactively (and voluntarily) implemented geofence flight restrictions for restricted airspace, demonstrating a commitment to security, not espionage.”
Spray drones are not used for surveying or mapping and do not store any data about the products being applied, the coalition press release points out. Additionally, the economic risks associated with the proposed ban could be significant. According to the USDA, in 2022, the U.S. exported $36.4 billion in agricultural goods to China, far exceeding what it imported.
Formation of an Industry Group
Recognizing the need for a unified voice amidst a growing legislative backlog, this diverse group, more accustomed to competing for market share than collaborating, has reached a unanimous decision to formalize an industry group. Once established, this group will advocate on behalf of U.S. farmers and applicators for continued use of and access to industry-leading spray drone technology. Mariah Scott, CEO of Rantizo, emphasized, “Success is ensuring that U.S. farmers have access to ag tech solutions that allow them to remain competitive on a global scale.”
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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