China Bans Rare Mineral Exports to U.S. Following Biden's Tech Restrictions

TDT | Manama
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China announced on Tuesday its decision to ban the export of several rare minerals, including gallium, germanium, and antimony, to the United States, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing technology and trade battle between the world’s two largest economies.

The move follows a tightening of U.S. restrictions on Chinese access to advanced American technologies. On Monday, the Biden administration expanded export curbs, prohibiting the sale of certain semiconductor chips and machinery to China and adding over 100 Chinese companies to a restricted trade list.

China’s Ministry of Commerce cited national security concerns as the reason for halting exports of the minerals, which are essential for manufacturing semiconductors and other advanced technologies. The export of graphite, another critical material, will also face stricter reviews.

China dominates global production of these materials, making the move a strategic response to U.S. measures aimed at limiting China's access to cutting-edge technologies. In recent months, Beijing has tightened oversight of its mineral exports, requiring detailed disclosures from exporters on how the materials will be used in foreign supply chains.

Experts view this development as another step in the intensifying competition between the U.S. and China to control critical supply chains and maintain dominance in emerging technologies.