In 2024, China imposed restrictions on the export of critical materials such as germanium and gallium to the United States, significantly altering trade dynamics.

Following these restrictions, China also halted exports of wrought and unwrought antimony metal to all countries, including the US, which is its largest buyer.

Despite the export halts, China's antimony exports to the US increased by nearly 21% year-on-year during the first nine months of 2024, with export values more than doubling.

In November 2024, China introduced new regulations on export controls for dual-use items, which could potentially impact a broad range of products depending on how these regulations are implemented.

This evolving situation may provide China with leverage in tariff negotiations with the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump, although the complexities of the issue could complicate these negotiations.

Experts, including Ellie Saklatvala from Argus Media, have warned that China may soon expand its export restrictions on critical materials.

Analysts suggest that the US will face challenges in reducing its dependence on China for critical minerals in the short term, as developing alternative supply sources requires significant time and investment.