Ban on Chinese drones raises concerns among US soybean farmers

Chinese manufacturers like DJI and Autel Robotics, which dominate the market, due to fears of sensitive agricultural data being exposed to overseas entities. ASA President Scott Metzger, a farmer from Ohio, emphasized that U.S. soybean producers heavily rely on modern technologies, including drones, to remain competitive, efficient, and sustainable. He urged policymakers to fully consider the real-world impacts of such decisions on farmers who depend on these tools daily. The restrictions do not affect drones already on the market or in use but block the import and sale of new foreign-made models. This could lead to shortages of affordable drones essential for field monitoring, spraying, and precision farming. Similar concerns were voiced by farmers in states like Wisconsin, where drones play a critical role in precision agriculture amid tight competition and slim margins. Wisconsin Soybean Association President Doug Rebout acknowledged the need for national security but stressed ...