📌 China Lifts Export Ban on Gallium, Germanium, and Antimony to the U.S.
China has lifted its export ban on gallium, germanium, and antimony to the United States after nearly a year. The move is part of an easing of trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies.
China’s Ministry of Commerce announced that the export ban on items related to these minerals will be suspended for about one year. The ban was first imposed in December 2024, during the final phase of the Biden administration, as a retaliatory measure over exports of components to Hong Kong.
Gallium and germanium are essential for semiconductors, while antimony is widely used in military-grade flame retardants and other applications. In 2023, China mined nearly half of the world’s antimony.
<Know the Terms>
Gallium (Ga)
A metal obtained as a by-product when producing aluminum and zinc. It melts near room temperature and is used in high-performance semiconductors (especially GaN, GaAs). Important for 5G communications and EV power semiconductors.
Germanium (Ge)
A metalloid with glass-like transparency. Used in infrared sensors, optical fiber, and solar cells, and also for semiconductor doping (tuning electrical properties).
Antimony (Sb)
A metalloid often alloyed with lead to increase hardness and widely used as a flame retardant additive (to make materials less flammable). Used across defense, electronics, and building materials.
Ministry of Commerce of China (MOFCOM)
The government ministry overseeing China’s industry and trade policy. It issues notices on export/import controls.
