China exports small quantities of two vital minerals
Before the export restrictions on graphite take effect, China has permitted the export of limited quantities of germanium and gallium, which are critical for chip production.
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China exported small quantities of two minerals vital for high-tech manufacturing in October, resuming sales after a two-month hiatus.
Controls on germanium, gallium, and their chemical compounds—used in the production of chips, telecommunications equipment, and components for electric vehicles—were implemented on August 1 for national security reasons as China escalated its trade war with the US and Europe.
Another export control targeting graphite, an important material for electric vehicle batteries, will come into effect on December 1.
For germanium and gallium, Chinese exporters are now required to apply for government licenses and report details regarding their overseas customers and how the metals are used.
According to the latest Chinese customs data, after recording almost zero exports in August and September, very small quantities were exported in October. Exports for germanium stood at 0.65 tons, compared to 8.78 tons in July. For gallium, the figure was 0.25 tons, compared to 7.58 tons in July.
China exported 44 tons of germanium and 94 tons of gallium in total in 2022.