TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Civil Aviation Administration said that beginning in December, Taiwan drone suppliers must register in the agency’s system and provide key product information before placing drones on the market, CNA reported.
The administration said that manufacturers must input the brand and model, manufacturer details, maximum takeoff weight, cybersecurity compliance reports, and National Communications Commission radio-frequency certification into the agency’s UAV management system. They are also required to label this information on the product and its packaging. Noncompliance could lead to fines of up to NT$1.5 million (US$51,000).
Drones are classified as radio-frequency devices that could interfere with communication systems, including aircraft and police radios. Therefore, drone sales in Taiwan must be approved by the NCC to ensure they meet safety standards. The commission also provides a website for the public to check whether the drones they purchase are certified.
The International Trade Administration said that imported drones, including foreign brands sold by local agents, will be subject to customs inspection. Drones weighing 2 kg or more need an approval document from the administration, while smaller UAVs can be imported after approval from the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection.
Importers or distributors selling drones on e-commerce platforms must include Mandarin product information, including the manufacturer’s name, operating instructions, and instructions on how to access related information.
The aviation administration added that self-built drones must also be registered in its system for tracking purposes. Drones with a maximum takeoff weight of 250 grams or more must be registered before they can be operated.
As of October, Taiwan had 39,752 registered drones. The administration had issued 28,817 certified operator licenses, with 812 companies eligible to apply for flight operations.
