Beijing: China has announced a ban on the export of gallium, germanium, and antimony to the United States, citing national security concerns. This move, disclosed on Tuesday, comes just one day after the U.S. introduced its latest restrictions targeting China’s semiconductor sector.
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce issued a directive tightening controls on dual-use items—materials with both civilian and military applications—and enforcing stricter reviews on the export of graphite products to the U.S.
“In principle, the export of gallium, germanium, antimony, and superhard materials to the United States is prohibited,” the ministry stated.
Gallium and germanium are essential in producing semiconductors, infrared technology, solar cells, and fiber optic cables. Antimony, with applications ranging from ammunition and infrared missiles to batteries and photovoltaic equipment, is another critical material.
China, which dominates global production of these minerals, accounted for 59.2% of refined germanium output and an overwhelming 98.8% of refined gallium production this year, according to consultancy Project Blue. Beijing’s decision to curb these exports could significantly impact global supply chains already under strain.
In October alone, Chinese shipments of antimony products fell 97% after Beijing’s earlier export limits took effect. Meanwhile, global prices for antimony trioxide in Rotterdam have surged by 228% this year, reflecting tightening supply.
“This marks a significant escalation in supply chain tensions, especially where raw material access in the West is already constrained,” said Project Blue co-founder Jack Bedder.
The export restrictions are widely viewed as a direct response to Washington’s intensified measures against China’s semiconductor industry. On Monday, the U.S. imposed restrictions on 140 Chinese entities, including chip equipment manufacturer Naura Technology Group.
Experts see this as a continuation of the trade war initiated during former President Donald Trump’s administration, which included sweeping tariffs on Chinese goods. Trump, now poised to return to office, has proposed additional tariffs, further escalating trade hostilities.
“It’s no surprise that China has responded to increasing U.S. restrictions with its own curbs on strategic minerals,” said Peter Arkell, chairman of the Global Mining Association of China. “This trade war ultimately benefits no one.”
In response to the tightening U.S. measures, several Chinese industry groups have urged domestic companies to prioritize homegrown semiconductor solutions, arguing that American chips are no longer reliable.
This latest move underscores the deepening rift between the world’s two largest economies, as both sides leverage critical resources and technologies in an ongoing struggle for dominance.