China has announced an immediate ban on the export of key minerals and materials, including gallium, germanium, antimony, and superhard materials, to the United States. The new measures, outlined by China’s Ministry of Commerce on Tuesday, are part of the country’s broader strategy to safeguard national security and protect its interests. This move comes just a day after the United States escalated its crackdown on China’s semiconductor industry, further straining trade relations between the world’s two largest economies.
The restrictions specifically target “dual-use items” — materials that have both civilian and military applications — and apply only to the U.S., marking a direct response to Washington’s recent actions. The new directive also tightens the review process for graphite, a critical mineral used in various high-tech applications, to ensure that exports to the U.S. meet stricter end-use requirements.
China’s move builds on existing export controls that were introduced last year, which targeted critical minerals essential for various industries, including electronics and defense. Gallium, germanium, and antimony are vital in the production of semiconductors, solar panels, and high-performance alloys, making them crucial to technological advancement.
This latest action is a clear escalation in the ongoing trade war between China and the U.S., which has intensified under the current administration. In response to China’s ban, the U.S. government had already launched its third crackdown on China’s semiconductor sector this year, including imposing new restrictions on 140 Chinese companies, such as the chip equipment maker Naura Technology Group.
Beijing’s move is a significant signal that it is prepared to leverage its control over critical materials in the face of mounting U.S. pressure, particularly in the high-stakes semiconductor sector. The U.S. has already been seeking to diversify its sources of these minerals, but China remains the dominant supplier.
The development further escalates the tension between the two countries as they continue to clash over issues ranging from trade and technology to national security. With these new export restrictions in place, companies in the U.S. may face increasing challenges in securing the vital materials they need for their technological and industrial needs.
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