China moves to restrict critical metal exports to 'safeguard national security'

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) – China on Monday ordered export controls on gallium and germanium metals, key materials used to make semiconductors and electronics.

"In order to safeguard national security and interests ... it is decided to implement export controls on items related to gallium and germanium," the Commerce Ministry said in a statement.

It asked the exporters of gallium and germanium to seek prior approval from authorities before exporting these items, failing which may invite criminal charges.

China is the world’s largest producer of the two elements, with more than 95% of the global gallium output and 67% of germanium production. The restriction takes effect from Aug. 1.

Chinese state media said the move comes as the US and its allies step up crackdown on China's technological development in various fields, including semiconductors.

The Netherlands announced new export controls on advanced chip manufacturing equipment last week, which will come into force on Sept. 1. Companies will need to apply for a license to export certain advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment overseas.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​