BEIJING, July 31 Reuters China on Monday announced export controls on some drones and dronerelated equipment, saying it wanted to safeguard national security and interests amid escalating tension with the United States over access to technology.

The restrictions on equipment including some drone engines, lasers, communication equipment and antidrone systems would take effect on Sept. 1, the commerce ministry said.

The controls would also affect some consumer drones, and no civilian drones could be exported for military purposes, a ministry spokesperson said in a statement.

China39;s modest expansion of the scope of its drone control this time is an important measure to demonstrate our stance as a responsible major country, to implement global security initiatives, and maintain world peace, the unidentified spokesperson said.

Authorities had notified relevant countries and regions, the spokesperson said.

China has a big drone manufacturing industry and exports to several markets including the U.S.

U.S. lawmakers have said that more than 50 of drones sold in the U.S. are made by Chinesebased company DJI, and they are the most popular drone used by public safety agencies.

DJI said on Monday it always strictly complied with and enforced laws and regulations of the countries or regions in which it operates, including China39;s export control regulatory requirements.

We have never designed and manufactured products and equipment for military use, nor have we ever…