China’s gallium grip looms over Trump’s Beijing visit as critical deadline nears
The US gets 95% of its gallium from China, and a critical export suspension expires in November.
Deep Dive
China, which produces nearly 99% of the world's primary gallium, has a one-year suspension on its export ban to the US set to expire on November 27. The US currently sources 100% of this critical metal from overseas, with 95% coming from China. This strategic vulnerability will likely be a key issue in upcoming US-China trade talks, as gallium is essential for semiconductors, solar cells, and electric vehicles.
Why It Matters
A renewed ban could disrupt global supply chains for semiconductors, EVs, and renewable energy tech.