China to Restrict Antimony Exports Next Month

Export controls focus on safeguarding security and limiting weapons-related uses
By Newser.AI Read our AI policy
Posted Aug 15, 2024 3:00 PM CDT
China to Restrict Antimony Exports Next Month
The Chinese flag is seen on a tower at a antimony mining company in Lengshuijiang in south China's Hunan province on Oct. 8, 2009.   (Chinatopix via AP, File)

China's Commerce Ministry announced that starting Sept. 15, it will impose export controls on antimony, a mineral used in products ranging from flame retardants and batteries to night-vision goggles and nuclear weapons. The restrictions aim to protect China's security and allow it to achieve its international non-proliferation commitments, per the ministry. Exporters will need to secure a license, though the exact extent of the export limitations remains unclear. The ministry highlighted that any compliant exports would continue, but condemned any use of the mineral that threatens China's sovereignty and security.

The controls also extend to technologies and machinery related to smelting, separation, and super-hard materials. This move comes after China in 2023 placed export controls on gallium and germanium, which are used in computer chips and solar cells, to safeguard national security. The United States has similarly restricted China's access to advanced semiconductor technology on security grounds. China holds a dominant position as a major antimony producer, a fact that has caused concern among some US policymakers about dependence on Chinese sources. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X