Why it matters: China’s export curbs on raw materials for semiconductors

China's restrictions on exports of gallium and germanium take effect on Aug 1. The two raw materials are critical to the production of semiconductors and other electronics. Beijing says the goal is to protect national security, but it is also part of a long-running tit-for-tat between China and the West. CNA’s Teresa Tang explains what is at stake.

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[samleong]

It's about safety of the China armed forces. Rare metals were used in missiles, jet engines, satellites, etc.. The purity, costs, delivery of rare metals produced outside China were too slow and/or below par. Japan might charge 10 times more.🎉

[terryandrews]

Almost every one relies on China to refine the metals. Even the ones who mine it now like Australia, who sends it to China for processing.

[joem]

China is increasing massive production of legacy chips and needs the Ga and Ge for it's own use. Restriction is not about weaponising supply.

[johntwohy]

So?
Uncle Sam shoots own foot again.

[kongwee]

Yup, US has to reduce F35 production.

[mssv]

China need to keep stock for it's own semiconductor need, of course National Security is an excuse....

[themiddlekingdom]

Why take the Chinese so long to curb those raw materials export ?

[natbirchall]

It's good to get those subsidized chinese products of the market now normal market dynamics are allowed to work again.

[tidusjones]

A good reason for other countries to pick up the supply chains. It is not rare. It's time for ASEAN to shine again as the factory of the world.

[jeffreystliow]

American can always print its way out of this slight inconvenience. ANOTHER 32 TRILLION $$$$ for the masses

[ArabicReja]

Xi's Gallium and Germanium curbs risk backfiring as G-7 is seeking a supply-chain diversification away from China 🇨🇳.
- This further hurts China economically.

[avatarairbinder]

China dont hav Germanuim and gallium, China import materials from russia and kazakhstan and proccessed in China.😂😂😂😂 wat a shame