China Suspends Export Ban on Key Strategic Materials

China has officially suspended its export restrictions on several critical strategic materials to the United States, including gallium, germanium, antimony, and super-hard materials, according to a statement by the Ministry of Commerce. The suspension will be effective immediately and remain in place until November 27, 2026.

The announcement marks a significant step in U.S.-China trade relations, particularly concerning the export of dual-use items, which are materials and technologies that have both commercial and military applications.

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Background: Initial Ban and Trade Tensions

The original export ban was imposed in December 2024, amidst growing trade tensions between the two global powers. Alongside the ban, China also implemented strict end-user and end-use checks for certain materials such as dual-use graphite, which are now temporarily suspended as part of the current measure.

This decision comes amid broader moves to ease restrictions on strategic exports. On October 9, 2025, China had already announced a suspension of other export controls, including those affecting rare earth materials and lithium battery components, further signaling a shift toward more balanced trade engagement with the U.S.

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Impact on U.S. Supply Chains and Technology Industry

The suspension of the export ban is expected to provide relief to high-tech and semiconductor industries in the United States. Materials like gallium and germanium are essential for manufacturing semiconductors, LEDs, solar panels, and electronic components. Meanwhile, antimony is widely used in flame retardants, alloys, and battery technology.

Industry analysts suggest that this temporary suspension could help mitigate potential supply chain disruptions and stabilize prices for these critical resources in the international market.

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Trade Relations and Diplomatic Context

The easing of export controls also aligns with ongoing diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and China. Earlier, President Xi Jinping and President Donald Trump had reached agreements to reduce tariffs and pause certain trade measures for a one-year period. This move can be seen as part of a broader strategy to improve bilateral trade cooperation and reduce tensions over high-tech materials.

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Looking Ahead: Temporary Measures and Market Implications

While the suspension is set to last until November 27, 2026, experts caution that these measures are temporary and that China retains the authority to reinstate the export bans depending on geopolitical and economic developments.

Businesses reliant on critical materials imports from China are advised to monitor developments closely and consider diversifying their supply chains to avoid future disruptions.

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Key Takeaways

• China has suspended its export ban on gallium, germanium, antimony, and super-hard materials to the U.S. until Nov 27, 2026.
• Restrictions on dual-use graphite exports are also temporarily lifted.
• This move could stabilize supply chains for high-tech industries in the U.S.
• Ties into ongoing efforts to ease U.S.-China trade tensions and tariff reductions.