BNR – The Commerce Ministry of China stated on Monday that it will restrict exports of certain metals that are prevalent in semiconductor manufacturing. The move comes within an intensifying conflict between China and the US for possession of advanced chips.
Exporters will now be required to get approval to ship certain gallium and germanium goods. According to China, the measures are in place to preserve national security and state interests.
The plan to oversee shipments of rare elements classified as critical by Beijing comes as Washington considers further curbs on the supply of sophisticated chips to China.
This summer, the US and the Netherlands are also likely to strike a double blow to China’s semiconductor companies. Both countries will limit chipmaking equipment exports to keep China from employing such products to enhance its arsenal.
China Tightens Control
China’s restrictions will extend to eight gallium-related items beginning 1 August. The involved elements are Gallium antimonide, gallium arsenide, gallium metal, gallium nitride, gallium oxide, gallium phosphide, gallium selenide, and indium gallium arsenide.
They will also be applicable to six germanium-related products. Germanium dioxide, germanium epitaxial growth substrate, germanium ingot, germanium metal, germanium tetrachloride, and zinc germanium phosphide are among them.
Exporters will have to go through protocols to secure export licenses, according to a statement from China’s commerce ministry.
Anybody who exports these items without a license or in excess of the permissible amounts may face penalties.
In addition, germanium is utilised in infrared technologies, fibre optics, and solar power panels.
