China Drone Expo Shines Spotlight on the ‘Low-Altitude Economy’

Haye Kesteloo
May 25, 2024
Asia, China, Drone Companies, Drone Industry, Drones, Europe, India, Japan, Middle East, South Korea

Shenzhen Hosts Record-Breaking Drone World Congress

The annual Drone World Congress kicked off in Shenzhen with a record 500 companies exhibiting their latest drone technologies. This eighth iteration of the event reflects Beijing’s push to develop its “low-altitude economy.”

Expanding Industry Participation

This year’s expo reportedly saw a 25% increase in exhibitors, drawing participants from over 100 Countries. Shenzhen, home to industry leader DJI, remains a major hub for drone development, supported by the city government.

Shifting Export Markets

Amid U.S.-China tensions, many Chinese Drone Companies are targeting alternative markets. A Shenzhen manufacturer specializing in control modules reported business dealings in India, Europe, Japan, and South Korea.

Advanced Drone Control Technologies

A Hangzhou-based company showcased its equipment designed to neutralize unauthorized drones, a technology previously used during official visits to Xinjiang. The company highlighted its cost advantage over international competitors and exports to Central Asia and the Middle East.

Future Growth of the Low-Altitude Economy

China aims to grow its low-altitude economy, encompassing drones and flying cars, from 500 billion yuan ($69 billion) in 2023 to 2 trillion yuan ($276 billion) by 2030.

DroneXL’s Take

The Drone World Congress in Shenzhen underscores China’s commitment to advancing its Drone Industry. With rising international tensions, Chinese companies are pivoting to new markets, showcasing innovative technologies that promise to shape the future of the global drone landscape. This event reflects the dynamic growth and potential of the low-altitude economy.

Photo courtesy of Itsuro Fujino.

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Haye Kesteloo

Haye Kesteloo is a leading drone industry expert and Editor in Chief of DroneXL.co and EVXL.co, where he covers drone technology, industry developments, and electric mobility trends. With over nine years of specialized coverage in unmanned aerial systems, his insights have been featured in The New York Times, The Financial Times, and cited by The Brookings Institute, Foreign Policy, Politico and others.

Before founding DroneXL.co, Kesteloo built his expertise at DroneDJ. He currently co-hosts the PiXL Drone Show on YouTube and podcast platforms, sharing industry insights with a global audience. His reporting has influenced policy discussions and been referenced in federal documents, establishing him as an authoritative voice in drone technology and regulation. He can be reached at haye @ dronexl.co or @hayekesteloo.