On Tuesday, 3rd of December, China banned the export of key minerals—gallium, germanium, and antimony—to the United States. These minerals are essential for military and tech applications, and the move is a significant escalation in the ongoing trade tensions between the two countries. This comes just a day after the U.S. imposed new restrictions on China’s semiconductor industry.
China has been gradually tightening controls on critical mineral exports, but this new ban targets only the U.S. The Chinese Commerce Ministry cited national security concerns and said that the export of these minerals to the U.S. would no longer be allowed. Gallium and germanium are important for semiconductors and infrared technologies, while antimony is used in weapons and ammunition. Graphite, which is also affected by the new rules, is a key component in electric vehicle batteries.
“To safeguard national security interests and fulfill international obligations such as non-proliferation, China has decided to strengthen export controls on relevant dual-use items to the United States,” the ministry said.
The U.S. government is reviewing the situation and says it will take appropriate action. A White House spokesperson emphasized the importance of diversifying supply chains to reduce reliance on China.
Data shows that, so far, no germanium or gallium has been shipped to the U.S. this year, although these minerals were once major exports. China’s shipments of antimony also dropped sharply in October after the export restrictions were announced.
The move is seen as part of China’s strategy to protect its military and technological interests. Some U.S. companies have warned that China is “weaponizing” access to critical minerals. Perpetua Resources, a company developing an antimony mine in Idaho, said the U.S. needs to reduce its dependence on Chinese minerals.
The timing of China’s export ban is notable, as it follows the U.S.’s third crackdown on China’s semiconductor industry. The trade war between the two countries continues to intensify, with both sides imposing tariffs and restrictions.
