This photo taken on June 11, 2024 shows an employee working at a factory that produces lithium battery for export in Huaibei, in eastern China's Anhui province. STR/AFP via Getty Images
China's Commerce Ministry recently announced that it will impose new export controls on antimony, a key mineral used in products like batteries and weapons.
As reported by AP News, the restriction will take effect on September 15 and is aimed at protecting China's national security and fulfilling its international non-proliferation commitments.
Under the new rules, exporters will need to obtain a license to ship antimony in any form.
The ministry's brief statement did not specify the full extent of the restrictions, but the inclusion of "non-proliferation" in the announcement hints that the controls may impact exports related to weaponry. The government has emphasized that while regulated exports will still be allowed, it opposes any use of its materials that could compromise China's sovereignty, security, and development interests.
The statement did not elaborate on the specific activities it seeks to prevent.
In addition to antimony, the new regulations will cover technologies and machinery related to smelting, separation, and other high-tech materials. This follows China's previous restrictions on gallium and germanium-metals crucial for computer chips and solar cells-as part of its strategy to protect national security.
While uncertain if it's a retaliation against the United States, it's worth noting that US has also imposed restrictions on Chinese access to advanced semiconductor technology, reflecting ongoing concerns about dependency on Chinese materials.
In the case of Antimony, however, it's a critical component in numerous applications, from flame retardants and batteries to night-vision goggles and nuclear weapons. This makes China's new export controls "valuable" in the global supply chain.
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