More Germanium, significantly less Gallium: Diverging export trends in technology metals highlight the market’s volatility once again.
After hitting a record in October, China exported significantly less gallium in November. With 7,279 kilograms shipped, exports fell 53 percent compared with the previous month, according to the latest data from the Chinese Customs Administration.
After a record high in October, gallium exports have dropped sharply.
Shifts are also visible among the destination countries: After taking the lion’s share in October, Germany received nothing in November, while Japan became the main recipient with 6,207 kilograms. South Korea followed with 872 kilograms, and Taiwan and Estonia each received 100 kilograms.
In contrast, China’s germanium exports have increased for the second consecutive month. Already in October, shipments more than doubled compared with September. In November, exports reached 1,688 kilograms, marking another 34 percent rise.
For the second month in a row, China’s germanium exports have grown.
Among the destination countries, the picture remained largely stable: As in October, Russia received the largest share, followed by Germany. France moved up to third place, overtaking Taiwan.
The availability of gallium and germanium on global markets is heavily influenced by China’s strict export licensing system, in place since summer 2023. Beijing justifies the regulations with the potential military applications of these raw materials.
Photo: Kittikorn via Canva