Home / Business and Economy / China Suspends Ban on Gallium, Germanium, Antimony Exports to US
China Suspends Ban on Gallium, Germanium, Antimony Exports to US
10 Nov
Summary
- China suspends ban on exporting gallium, germanium, antimony to US
- Exports still require licenses, restrictions remain on dual-use items
- Suspension lasts until November 2026, easing supply chain issues
As of November 10, 2025, China has suspended its ban on exporting gallium, germanium, and antimony to the United States. The suspension, which will last until November 27, 2026, comes as a relief to US users who faced shortages due to the previous export restrictions.
While the outright ban has been lifted, China's Ministry of Commerce has clarified that the three metals remain on the country's dual-use export control list. This means exporters must still apply for licenses for any overseas sales, and restrictions will continue to apply when dealing with US military customers.
The suspension is the latest easing of China's mineral export controls, following recent diplomatic efforts between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The ban, initially imposed between August 2023 and September 2024, had led some US importers to seek alternative supply routes through third countries.
These critical materials are vital for manufacturing semiconductors, fiber-optic cables, ammunition, and flame retardants. China's dominance in the global supply of gallium, germanium, and antimony has made it a key player in the international trade of these strategic resources.
