China has expanded its list of raw materials subject to export controls, according to a statement from the Ministry of Commerce on Tuesday. The new regulations apply to certain compounds and products made from indium, molybdenum, bismuth, tungsten, and tellurium. Among these are cadmium telluride wafers, which are used in certain types of solar cells. Similar to the case of gallium and germanium, which have been subject to similar rules since the summer of 2023, the latest measures are being implemented with national security concerns in mind. The listed products can be used for both civilian and military purposes (dual-use). According to the U.S. Geological Survey, China is the leading producer of all of these elements.
Number of Raw Materials Subject to Export Restrictions Growing
Just over a year after the introduction of restrictions on gallium and germanium, comparable measures were implemented for antimony. A few months later, China also specifically targeted the United States, which was seen as a response to U.S. efforts to cut off China’s access to advanced computer chips. Relations between the two nations further deteriorated under U.S. President Donald Trump, with recent announcements of tariffs on Chinese goods. The latest announcement of export controls can be interpreted as a direct response to these developments, especially given their timing.
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