China Restricts Antimony Exports to Safeguard National Security

China's Commerce Ministry announced restrictions on antimony exports starting September 15, aimed at safeguarding national security and fulfilling international non-proliferation obligations. The measures require export licenses and cover smelting technology and related machinery. The restrictions could impact the use of antimony in products ranging from batteries to weapons.

China's Commerce Ministry has announced that, starting September 15, it will impose restrictions on the export of antimony, a mineral vital to a diverse array of products including batteries, weapons, and electronics.

The new export controls aim to protect China's security interests and honor international non-proliferation commitments. Exporters will need to secure licenses, and the restrictions also extend to smelting technology and machinery associated with super-hard materials.

The move follows similar curbs on gallium and germanium last year, and reflects ongoing tensions with the United States, which has limited China's access to advanced technology citing security concerns.

(With inputs from agencies.)