Since summer 2023, exports of germanium from China have been subject to strict controls. Following a complete halt, mainly due to the lengthy licensing process, exports eventually resumed, but volumes have remained low. As the world’s largest producer of this strategic metal, China’s export policy has significant implications for global supply chains. Accordingly, its trade data is closely watched. The latest figures from China’s customs authority reveal a sharp year-over-year drop: in the first half of 2025, China exported just 5,068 kilograms of germanium, down from 12,410 kilograms during the same period in 2024, a decline of more than 50%. Exports in April and June 2025 fell to nearly zero.
Germanium Exports in the First Half of 2025
Top Destinations (H1 2025):
Belgium – 1,950 kg
Russia – 1,024 kg
Japan – 1,000 kg
Germany – 902 kg
Taiwan – 111 kg
The rest of the world saw little to no supply. Canada, with just 6 kilograms, was the only country in the Americas to receive any germanium from China.
China classifies germanium as a dual-use material, meaning it has both civilian and military applications. It plays a critical role in defense technologies such as infrared sensors and night-vision devices. Due to its strategic value, Chinese customs require extensive documentation for export approval, which often causes delays or prevents shipments altogether.
In December 2024, Beijing escalated restrictions by imposing a full export ban on germanium and other dual-use goods to the United States.
More background information on the germanium exports:
Latest data:
https://lnkd.in/ekU8Df7S
Export controls:
https://lnkd.in/eDw3xstp
Export to the U.S. banned:
https://lnkd.in/dx3BtNtR
Photo: iStock/takenobu