China’s Ministry of Commerce has announced the suspension of gallium, germanium, and antimony exports to the United States, further escalating the long-standing trade disputes between the two nations.

The measure, which takes immediate effect, targets products with both civilian and military applications, citing national security concerns, according to Reuters. Additionally, stricter oversight will be enforced on the end use of graphite exports to the U.S.

This action marks the latest chapter in the ongoing trade rivalry between the two powers, impacting major global tech companies.

The current restriction strengthens the limitations announced in August 2024, which took effect in September. However, Chinese customs data shows no germanium or gallium exports, either raw or processed, to the U.S. up to October of this year. Moreover, antimony shipments dropped by 97% between September and October after the mineral restrictions were implemented.

In 2023, China accounted for 48% of the global antimony extraction, a mineral used in nuclear weapons, photovoltaic devices, and batteries. Additionally, according to Project Blue, China produced 59.2% of refined germanium and nearly all refined gallium at 98.8%.

This new restriction is seen as a response to the recent U.S. offensive against China’s semiconductor sector, announced on December 2, which imposes export restrictions on 140 companies. Washington’s strategy aims to maintain its dominance in the artificial intelligence industry and safeguard national security.

With President-elect Donald Trump’s announcement of new tariffs on Chinese products, including a potential 60% tariff on imports, the trade conflict shows no signs of easing.

By: Nestor Castillo, ForAllTechNews Director