Drone maker Da-Jiang Innovations(DJI)represents a rare breed of Chinese companies. Unlike most firms that first grow big in domestic markets before going international, DJI’s ambitions were global from the start. With four-propeller models equipped with 1080p high-definition cameras that retail for about $ 1,000, DJI has managed to capture more than 60% of the international markets for consumer drones.
Now the Shenzhen-based company wants to generate more revenue from China. The first step is partnering with Youku Tudou, a video site backed by e-commerce titan Alibaba Group Holding. Youku Tudou will establish a new website channel to show aerial videos taken with DJI drones. It will also sell the company’s complete line of products at its online mall, the two firms announced in Beijing yesterday.
DJI’s also partnering with Qyer.com, an Alibaba-backed travel website. Qyer.com will provide customized tour routes for capturing aerial videos. DJI says in a statement that the move will help it build a community for aerial videographers.
China currently accounts for less than 20% of DJI’s total sales. The company gets the bulk of its revenue- which is rumored to be $500 million in 2014- from Europe and North America. It is reportedly seeking to raise money at a $ 10 billion valuation.
DJI is also working with the central government in Beijing on rules over consumer drones. The company programs its products to prevent them from flying near most of the world’s major airports. It is also updating the list of no-fly zones to include more airports and government institutions. About a week ago one of DJI’s Phantom series of drones was discovered on Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s rooftop, prompting officials calling for new regulations over the use of drones for fear of terrorists using the tiny aircrafts for attacks. In January, a DJI drone crashed on the lawn of the White House, triggering a security panic but no injury or damage was reported.
