China Imposes Export Controls on Gallium, Germanium

China implemented export restrictions on gallium- and germanium-related items, which are used to make semiconductors and other key technology, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced, according to an unofficial translation. The restrictions will start Aug. 1 and are to protect China's national security, the ministry said. China is the top producer of the two metals, which are also used in solar panels, lasers and night-vision goggles. Gallium and germanium exporters will be required to apply for a license and report on their international buyers.

A spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry said that it is "international customary practice to impose export controls" on goods that have both military and civilian purposes and contain gallium and germanium. Noting that the restrictions were imposed with no target on any specific country, the spokesperson said that "China has all along acted as a champion and upholder for true multilateralism, remained committed to safeguarding the security and stability of the global industrial and supply chains, and implemented fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory export control.

"We have also opposed individual countries’ move to overstretch the concept of national security and abuse export control, and rejected the hegemonic acts of bullying and suppression that know no bottom line targeting certain countries. China’s export control over industrial products and materials containing gallium and germanium is consistent with international customary practice, and completely legitimate and justified." The spokesperson's remarks are from a transcript in English of a regular press conference held July 5 in Beijing, and were made in response to a reporter's question.