China gallium, germanium shipping curbs kick in; wait for permits begins

September 21, 2023: On Tuesday, China’s export controls on some gallium and germanium products take effect, with traders braced for a drop in international supply in August and September while exporters sort out newly required permits.

According to customs data, it was reported that China recorded no exports of germanium products in the previous month, a significant decrease from the 8.63 metric tons exported in July. This drop in exports in July was preceded by a notable increase, more than double, compared to June, driven by heightened demand ahead of the implementation of trade restrictions amid China’s ongoing disputes with the United States and its allies over access to critical technology.

Furthermore, customs data indicated that there were also no exports of gallium products in August, in contrast to the 5.15 tons exported in July.

 Both germanium and gallium are not naturally occurring elements but are derived as by-products while refining other metals.

Germanium is applied in various sectors, including solar products, fiber optics, and even military equipment like night-vision goggles. On the other hand, gallium is a crucial component in producing gallium arsenide, a chemical compound essential for radio frequency chips used in mobile phones, satellite communication, and semiconductor manufacturing.

In response to national security concerns, China’s Ministry of Commerce introduced new regulations in August, mandating exporters to obtain licenses for shipping specific gallium and germanium compounds.

 These licenses require detailed information about importers, end users, and the intended purpose of these metals.

Notably, the United States initiated comprehensive regulations in October to restrict the import of critical chips and semiconductor tools to China, which has potential implications for China’s ambitions in advancing its domestic technology industries.

 Additionally, the U.S. has been actively encouraging key chip-producing nations and allies, such as the Netherlands and Japan, to implement their export restrictions in alignment with its strategic objectives.