China's Export Restrictions on Gallium and Germanium Threaten Global Semiconductor Supply Chains

China produces about 98% of the world's gallium supply and 60% of germanium, leading to growing concerns in global supply chains as it restricts exports of these vital materials for the semiconductor industry. These restrictions are impacting advanced chip production and military optics in the West, with prices of these metals doubling in Europe over the past year. The measures are seen as a strategic response by China to U.S. restrictions on advanced chip technologies, highlighting the country's dominance in the market and raising alarms about potential supply shortages.