Title：A Brief Analysis of the Security Logic of China’s Export Controls on Gallium and Germanium

Author：Mi Zhou

Abstract：Since August 1, 2023, China has implemented export controls on gallium, germanium, and their compounds. As a major trading country, China is a responsible major power, constantly improves its export control system, and contributes positively towards global security. Although discovered earlier, the production of gallium and germanium is relatively small. International industrial division of labor and market development have promoted the continuous evolution of trade in gallium and germanium. Global resource endowments of gallium and germanium and their trade relations directly impact the security fields. Implementing export controls on gallium and germanium will contribute to safeguarding China’s national security and interests. In addition to directly reducing the threat of the United States that uses gallium and germanium products to produce weapons, it will also help maintain the stability of the gallium and germanium supply chain, strengthem China’s leading position in the global supply chain of related products and secure the competitive opportunities for Chinese enterprises in related industries to safeguard industrial security. In order to effectively implement controls on gallium and germanium, enhance the resilience of the relevant supply chains, and fulfill its international commitments, China should actively adopt diversified synergistic promoting and safeguarding measures.

Keywords：Export Controls, Gallium, Germanium, National Security