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China bans export to the US of minerals that may have military applications

Gallium and germanium are used in semiconductors, while germanium is also used in infrared technology, fiber optic cables and solar cells
Internet

Published at: 03/12/2024 03:02 PM

The Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China reported that as of this Tuesday, exports to the United States (USA) of products related to the minerals gallium, germanium and antimony, which may have military applications, were banned.

In a statement, the entity of the Asian giant said that, “in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Export Control Act of the People's Republic of China and other laws and regulations, and in order to safeguard security and national interests and comply with international obligations such as non-proliferation, it has been decided to strengthen the control of exports of dual-use products to the United States.”

The text states that the export of dual-use graphite products to the United States will be subject to a stricter user and end use review. In this regard, they stress that those who violate the provisions, “will be investigated for legal liability in accordance with the law.”

Gallium and germanium are used in semiconductors, while germanium is also used in infrared technology, fiber optic cables and solar cells. This year, China accounted for 59.2% of refined germanium production and 98.8% of refined gallium production in the world, Reuters reports .

Mazo News Team