SW Arkansas Times

China has announced a ban on the export of three critical minerals—germanium, gallium, and antimony—to the United States. These minerals are vital for domestic semiconductor production, and their restriction poses significant national security concerns. In response to this development, House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman expressed criticism towards the Biden-Harris administration.

Westerman stated, "Despite the concerns of elected officials, national security experts, local communities and mineral producers, the Biden-Harris administration has made it more difficult to access the rich mineral resources here in America and ceded control of the global mineral supply chain to our adversaries." He further added that Americans now face consequences due to what he described as "Biden’s disastrous policies" and a "radical anti-mining agenda."

The decision by China follows a period of increasing tensions over these minerals since last year. China holds a dominant position in the global supply of germanium and gallium, controlling approximately 60% and over 90% respectively. Both minerals are crucial for technologies such as semiconductors and solar cells. Antimony is also important for defense equipment among other uses. Currently, there is no domestic source for these minerals in the U.S.

The U.S. Geological Survey has estimated that China's export ban could impact the U.S. economy by up to $3.4 billion while raising significant national security issues. The Chinese government has indicated that part of its motivation for the ban is to target items valuable to the U.S. military.

The House Committee on Natural Resources has consistently opposed policies from the Biden administration regarding mineral resource management and advocated for increased domestic development of these resources. The committee continues to push legislation aimed at bolstering domestic critical mineral production and protecting supply chains against actions like China's recent ban.