China is the world’s largest producer of these two elements, accounting for more than 95 percent of global gallium production and 67 percent of germanium.
However, the new numbers for germanium were not so rosy. China exported only 3.3 tons of forged germanium in December, compared to 8.78 tons in July.
Top Chinese fabless semiconductor companies such as Loongson predict huge losses in 2023
Top Chinese fabless semiconductor companies such as Loongson predict huge losses in 2023
In August, no germanium was sold overseas, but in October and November, only a small amount of germanium left the country, amounting to 0.64 tons and 0.72 tons, respectively.
In all of 2023, China exported about 41 tons of germanium and 44 tons of gallium.
Western companies have relied on China’s supplies of these two critical components.
China’s gallium and germanium exports decline as shipping restrictions take effect
China’s gallium and germanium exports decline as shipping restrictions take effect
Chris Miller, author of the book, said there had been no “drastic reduction” in the supply of gallium and germanium despite the Chinese government’s export restrictions. Chip Wars: The battle for the world’s most important technology.
Miller said China recognizes that cutting off supplies is “costly not only for itself, but also for the United States and other countries.”
“This is not a costless tool for China because it will ricochet through the electronic supply chain and cause disruptions that will also hurt China.”