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Why the US-China Tech War is Escalating
In the latest escalation of the US-China geopolitical rivalry, China announced new export restrictions on gallium and germanium, two critical minerals essential for advanced military and civilian technologies. The move, justified by Beijing on national security grounds, comes as a direct response to intensified US export controls targeting China’s semiconductor industry. This tit-for-tat dynamic is reshaping global supply chains, deepening tensions between the two superpowers, and raising concerns about the global economy’s stability.
This article explores the motivations and implications of China’s export ban, its impact on the United States and global industries, and how this conflict reflects the broader struggle for technological dominance in the 21st century.
China’s Export Ban: What It Means
On December 4, 2024, China’s Ministry of Commerce announced an export ban on products related to gallium and germanium, citing national security concerns. These materials are critical for producing semiconductors, advanced electronics, fiber optics, and renewable energy technology. They are also indispensable for military applications, including radar systems, satellite communications, and night-vision equipment.
