PREVIEW

China Bans Key Mineral Exports to U.S., Escalating Trade Tensions Amid Semiconductor Crackdown. Beijing has banned the export of gallium, germanium, antimony, and related materials to the United States, citing national security concerns, Reuters reports. These minerals are critical for both military and civilian applications. Alongside the ban, stricter reviews for graphite exports to the U.S. have been implemented, focusing on dual-use items with military and civilian purposes. The export restrictions apply only to the U.S., marking an intensification of trade tensions between the two largest global economies ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. Gallium and germanium are essential for semiconductors, fiber optics, solar cells, and infrared technology. Antimony is used in ammunition, missiles, batteries, and photovoltaic equipment. In October, China’s shipments of antimony products dropped 97% from September after imposing similar restrictions, causing global prices for antimony trioxide to surge by 228% this year. China accounted for nearly 60% of refined germanium output and 98.8% of refined gallium production in 2023, highlighting its critical role in global supply chains. Prices for antimony have skyrocketed, with European traders predicting intensified efforts by countries to find alternative deposits of these key minerals. The move follows the U.S.’s third crackdown on China’s semiconductor sector, which on Monday expanded export restrictions to 140 Chinese companies, including Naura Technology Group. Trade analysts warn that China's export bans and the U.S.’s semiconductor restrictions could further strain already tight supply chains, creating global ripple effects. President-elect Trump, known for his tough stance on China during his previous term, has threatened to impose up to 60% tariffs on Chinese imports, signaling a potential intensification of the trade conflict.
Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT