Why China’s critical mineral dominance is still disrupting US supply chains | South China Morning Post

VirtualRichDream · 2026-03-09T02:14:17+00:00

American companies face a critical mineral shortage despite eased Chinese export controls. Experts highlight ongoing challenges in securing these vital materials, impacting sectors like defense and technology. The situation is exacerbated by China's dominant market position.

VirtualRichDream

2026-03-09 02:14:17

Abstract generation in progress

American companies are grappling with a shortage of critical minerals used in daily operations despite China easing some of its export controls, according to industry insiders**.**

After Beijing and Washington agreed to a so-called trade truce last November, the Ministry of Commerce issued a notice suspending a ban on shipments of gallium, germanium and antimony to the US for one year.

But China’s dominant position in the global market for these vital raw materials, including heavy rare earths, continued to weigh on US companies, industry insiders said.

“There is no immediate broad-based solution except supply loosening in China,” said David Abraham, director of Three Legged Capital in New York, a specialist advisory firm focused on critical mineral supply chains.

“It’s not just that materials are dear; it’s that they are not getting to manufacturers,” he added, noting the current situation was creating “severe challenges” for the defence and tech industries.

Jesse Marks, CEO and executive director of Rihla Research & Advisory, a strategic consulting firm on diversifying critical mineral supply chains, said China’s blanket bans and export licensing regime had fuelled a global scramble for supplies since last April.

This page may contain third-party content, which is provided for information purposes only (not representations/warranties) and should not be considered as an endorsement of its views by Gate, nor as financial or professional advice. See Disclaimer for details.