China restricts exports of key materials for computer chips

The Chinese government has tightened export controls on two key materials used to make computer chips.

Here's What We Know

From next month, special licences will be required to export gallium and germanium from China, which is the world's largest producer of these metals. The materials are used in semiconductors, communications equipment and military equipment.

Gallium and germanium are also key materials in products such as solar panels.

The announcement comes days before US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen visits Beijing. The restrictions are necessary to "safeguard national security and interests", according to a spokesperson from China's Ministry of Commerce.

Go Deeper:

• The US is considering new restrictions on exports of artificial intelligence chips to China.
• Netherlands to restrict exports of chipmaking equipment under US pressure.

Source: BBC.