The ban on exports of Rare Earth Minerals to the United States for military purposes
China’s Ban on Rare Earth Minerals Exports to the U.S. for Military Purposes:
What happens when the world’s tech superpower cuts off the minerals fueling everything from fighter jets to smartphones? In December 2024, China banned exports of gallium, germanium, and antimony to the United States for military purposes, escalating a trade war sparked by U.S. tariffs and chip restrictions.
With China controlling 91% of global rare earth element (REE) refining, this move threatens U.S. defense and tech sectors. Is this a calculated strike to exploit American vulnerabilities, or a risky escalation that could backfire?
China’s Strategic Ban: Targeting U.S. Military Capabilities
On December 3, 2024, China’s Ministry of Commerce announced a ban on exporting gallium, germanium, and antimony to the U.S. for military applications, citing national security and non-proliferation. This followed earlier April 2025 restrictions requiring export licenses for seven REEs—samarium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, lutetium, scandium, and yttrium.
The bans, detailed by
Newsweek, respond to U.S. tariffs of up to 54% and restrictions on Chinese chip-making technology. By targeting “dual-use” minerals critical for both civilian and military tech, China aims to choke U.S. defense supply chains. Can America pivot quickly, or will this expose a dangerous dependency?
China’s ban targets materials used in 78% of U.S. defense platforms, per CSIS data.
Why These Minerals Matter: The Backbone of Defense and Tech
Gallium, germanium, and antimony are not household names, but they’re indispensable. China produces 94% of global gallium, 83% of germanium, and 56% of antimony, per a 2023 EU study. Their roles include:
- Gallium: Essential for semiconductors in radar systems, LEDs, and solar cells.
- Germanium: Critical for infrared optics in night-vision systems and fiber optics for 5G.
- Antimony: Used in batteries, flame retardants, and military sensors.
REEs like dysprosium and terbium enhance magnets in F-35 jets (920 lbs of REEs per unit) and missiles, with China refining 99% of heavy REEs globally. The U.S. Geological Survey notes that 70% of U.S. REE imports come from China, highlighting a critical vulnerability. Will this ban cripple U.S. military readiness, or spur innovation?
Research Insight: The F-35 program alone relies on 417 kg of REEs per jet, per RAND.
- China controls 90% of global rare earth magnet production, vital for defense tech.
The Center for Strategic and International Studies warns of a “critical chokehold,” with global automakers like Volkswagen already facing disruptions. Can the U.S. diversify fast enough to avoid a crisis?
U.S. Counters by Building a Domestic Supply Chain
The U.S. is fighting back. Executive Order 14241, issued in March 2025, fast-tracks mining permits via FAST-41, shaving 15-18 months off project timelines. The Department of Defense has invested $439 million in domestic REE facilities, including MP Materials’ Mountain Pass mine and a new $6.1 million Ramaco Brook Mine in Wyoming. “Friend-shoring” with Australia and Ukraine aims to diversify supply, but the U.S. holds just 1.5% of global REE reserves. Recycling and alternative materials are being explored, yet scaling remains years away. Will these efforts break China’s grip, or fall short?
Research Insight: MP Materials produces only 1,000 tons of magnets annually vs. China’s 300,000 tons.
As the trade war simmers, strategic investments and global partnerships are critical to reclaiming control.
Contact Us



