China Partially Lifts Export Ban to U.S. on Key Dual-Use Minerals, Retains Military Restrictions

Overview

• China’s Ministry of Commerce said exports of gallium, germanium, antimony and superhard materials to U.S. civilian firms may resume under a temporary suspension that runs through November 27, 2026.
• Sales to companies linked to the U.S. military remain prohibited under the existing dual-use controls.
• Restrictions on dual-use graphite products were also eased, broadening the scope of the relaxation.
• Officials linked the move to recent leader-level talks, alongside actions such as a one-year suspension of a 24% tariff and removal of some U.S. agricultural barriers, while U.S. steps reportedly included a 10% tariff cut and a pause on new duties.
• The materials are important for semiconductors, optics and batteries but are not classified as rare earths, and authorities gave no clarity on whether, when or in what volumes export licenses will be issued.