The monthly figures show how sharply exports of the two metals can fluctuate.
After a brief recovery in July, China’s gallium exports plunged in August. According to the latest Chinese customs data, the country shipped just 350 kilograms abroad. Exports had reached 7,200 kilograms in July and almost the same amount, 7,201 kilograms, in August 2025. August’s shipments were therefore down around 95% against both comparison months.
South Korea received all 350 kilograms exported in August 2026. In July, Germany had been the largest buyer, followed by Malaysia.
Germanium followed a different path. China exported 2,769 kilograms in August, its highest monthly total so far this year and around 88% more than in July. Exports were also up around 137% from August 2025, when China shipped 1,166 kilograms abroad
As in previous months, most of the germanium exported in August 2026 went to Russia. Germany and Turkey also received sizeable amounts.
Japan received 48 kilograms of germanium, despite China having tightened its export controls on shipments to the country in January 2026. The restrictions target supplies destined for Japan’s military sector; civilian exports remain possible. Japan has received significantly less material from China since then.
Exports of both metals have been volatile in recent months, with several steep declines already recorded this year. China, the leading producer, introduced export controls on gallium and germanium in summer 2023, citing their potential military applications. Shipments have since depended heavily on export approvals, although monthly volumes fluctuated even before the controls took effect.
Photo: iStock/Igor Krasilov
