China Germanium Solar Panel

Are gallium & germanium still used in semiconductors?

These two raw materials, though they are important, still have relatively niche applications in the semiconductor industry. And while China dominates gallium and germanium production, other countries could ramp up their own production and export enough to substitute for the supply from China.

What percentage of germanium is produced in China?

Currently, about 60% of the world’s germanium and 90% of the world’s gallium is produced in China, according to the Chinese metal industry research firm Antaike. But because China doesn’t have the capacity to turn these materials into later-stage semiconductor or optical products, a big chunk of it is exported to companies in Japan and Europe.

Could other countries produce gallium & germanium?

And while China dominates gallium and germanium production, other countries could ramp up their own production and export enough to substitute for the supply from China. Here’s a quick look at where things stand and what comes next. What are gallium and germanium? What are they used for?

Why did China ban gallium & germanium?

On Dec. 3, China announced an export ban on both metals to the US in a tit-for-tat move after President Joe Biden’s administration implemented its own new technology curbs on the country. Beijing had already placed initial controls on exports of the materials last year, driving prices higher and upending trade flows. What are gallium and germanium?

Why is China requiring buyers of germanium & gallium?

As trade tensions between the U.S. and China continue, Beijing is now requiring buyers of germanium and gallium to ask for approval from the Chinese government.

Where is germanium made?

These applications also make them useful components in modern weapons. Currently, about 60% of the world’s germanium and 90% of the world’s gallium is produced in China, according to the Chinese metal industry research firm Antaike.