Speculation has arisen regarding DJI’s future in the US drone market, but the company maintains it has no plans to withdraw. Nevertheless, the reasons behind its dwindling stock remain unclear, as revealed in recent visits to major retailers.
A visit to a local Best Buy on June 24 showed an absence of DJI drones for sale. The section typically stocked with their products was entirely devoid of items, with no price tags or displays present, except for a few gimbals, action cameras, and an isolated RC controller.
A Best Buy employee explained the absence of DJI drones, attributing it to the ongoing tensions between the US and China.
This situation is not isolated to Best Buy. DJI’s own US online store currently shows no available drones, as reported by DroneDJ. On Amazon, while DJI maintains a presence, remaining drones are largely sold by third-party vendors with uncertain stock levels. The availability on Best Buy’s website is similarly scarce, featuring only a limited selection of older models.
Specialty retailers like Adorama and B&H are also facing stock shortages of current DJI models, with many listings marked as out of stock or backordered.
In response, DJI spokesperson Daisy Kong reiterated the company’s stance on its commitment to the US market while outlining ongoing issues with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regarding drone imports.
DJI remains committed to the US market. As we’ve previously shared, DJI has been working with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to resolve a custom-related misunderstanding. Unfortunately, this has impacted our ability to stock and import drones and parts. We understand the frustration among our customers, but remain hopeful that this will be resolved.
When further questioned about additional influences such as US tariffs on Chinese goods or China’s export controls impacting drone component costs, DJI refrained from providing additional insight.
Previously, DJI had informed its partners of concerns regarding import restrictions associated with the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, relating to allegations that it supplied drones to the Chinese government for surveillance purposes. While DJI denies these claims, the CBP has not publicly commented on them, leaving the situation ambiguous.
Best Buy has denied ceasing to carry DJI products but offered no further clarification when approached for comment.
If DJI were to exit the US market, it would align with the recent legal challenges it faces, including an impending ban on new product imports unless it can assure the government of its non-threat status. This presents a significant hurdle for the company.
DJI’s public policy lead previously hinted that a US ban would not stop the sale of existing products while new models would be launched in international markets. This scenario seems to be unfolding already, with the company having omitted the US market from the launch of its latest advanced drone.
Furthermore, DJI’s support channels are now warning customers that repairs may take considerably longer than usual. Price increases on popular models like the Osmo Pocket 3 suggest that the company is adjusting to the current supply chain pressures influenced by US-China relations.
