China's Mineral Export Ban: What to Know ⛏️

What We’re Showing

This graphic illustrates China's dominance in the production of germanium, gallium, antimony, and graphite—minerals that are now banned (or under restriction) for export to the U.S. 

Data was sourced from the USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries 2024.

Context

On Dec. 3, 2024, China announced an immediate export ban of gallium, germanium and antimony to the U.S., a day after the Biden administration imposed expanded restrictions on the sale of advanced computer chips to China.

The decision also enforces stricter reviews of graphite items shipped to the US, according to China’s Ministry of Commerce.

Key Takeaways 

• China has selected minerals that are important for EVs, electronics, and military equipment
• The ban on germanium and gallium alone could have a $3.4 billion impact on the U.S. economy
• America doesn't domestically produce antimony, germanium, or gallium, but it can recycle germanium scrap.