Germanium continues to trail gallium and remains at historic low levels.
China significantly increased gallium exports in July, according to the latest customs data. A total of 9,007 kilograms of the critical metal left the country last month, more than double the June level of 4,260 kilograms. The shipments went exclusively to Germany, which received 5,000 kilograms, and Japan, with 4,007 kilograms, leaving other countries excluded. By comparison, in July of last year, China exported at a similar level, highlighting a recovery in volume but not in trading partners.
Gallium exports from China over the last year.
Germanium shipments also showed signs of recovery, though still far below historic levels. Exports totaled 763 kilograms in July, up from just 96 kilograms in June. Here, the number of recipients also dwindled to just a few: Germany received 392 kilograms, Japan 352 kilograms, and Russia 19 kilograms. In July 2024, exports stood at twice the amount.
Exports of germanium from China over the last year.
Both gallium and germanium are essential to high-tech industries, particularly in semiconductors, fiber optics, and advanced optics, such as infrared systems. China is the world’s leading producer of both metals, and exports have been subject to a licensing regime since mid-2023. Official processing times are 45 working days, though companies report longer delays and ongoing uncertainty. A ban on shipments of both metals and other critical minerals to the United States, in place since December 2024, continues to reshape supply chains.
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