Made in China, Stopped in China: Export Ban on Critical Minerals Shakes U.S. Tech and Defense

By Janell Williams

In a move that could significantly impact U.S. technology and defense industries, China announced it will halt exports of gallium, germanium and antimony to the United States, citing national security concerns.

These critical minerals are essential in the production of semiconductors, renewable energy systems and military technologies.

China, which dominates the global production of these elements, imposed the ban effective immediately after President-Elect Donald Trump, threatened to increase tariffs on imports from China and Mexico.

Analysts fear the decision could disrupt supply chains, increase costs for U.S. manufacturers, and force the country to accelerate domestic production and diversification efforts.

In Georgia, where industries increasingly rely on these materials for production, the impact could be substantial.

What Are These Elements?

Gallium: A soft, silvery metal used in the production of semiconductors, LEDs, and solar panels. It is often derived as a byproduct of aluminum and zinc refining. This metal is often used in magnets for electric vehicles, wind turbines, and military-grade technologies.

Germanium: A metalloid critical for fiber optics, infrared optics, and solar cells. It is produced mainly as a byproduct of zinc smelting. This metal is needed to make computer chips for mobile phones, cars and other products, as well as solar panels

Antimony: A metalloid used in flame retardants, batteries, and military-grade alloys. The U.S. imports most of its antimony, despite having some reserves.

Georgia’s Connection

Companies in Columbus and nearby regions could face challenges sourcing these elements. Fort Benning, a significant military hub in the area, also may be indirectly affected if supply chain disruptions hinder the production of advanced weaponry or communications systems.

Since the pandemic, the U.S. has taken steps to reduce its dependence on Chinese imports.

For example, a Mountain Pass mine in California has resumed production of rare earth elements, and companies like MP Materials are working to develop domestic refining capabilities. However, building the infrastructure for large-scale manufacturing remains a significant hurdle.

The export ban highlights the growing economic and geopolitical rivalry between the U.S. and China. It also underscores the vulnerability of global supply chains for materials critical to 21st-century technologies.

The U.S. government has yet to announce specific countermeasures, but industry leaders and policymakers are calling for increased investment in domestic mining and processing facilities to bolster long-term resilience.

The effects of the export ban are expected to ripple through the economy, and its impact on U.S. businesses will continue to unfold in the coming months.