While the People's Republic exported significantly less gallium in November, germanium exports increased again. The latest customs data emphasise the ongoing fluctuating supply situation for both technology metals.
After the very high export volume in October China's gallium exports fell significantly in November. According to the latest data from the Chinese customs authorities, 7,279 kilograms of gallium left the country. Compared to the previous month, the quantity has halved (53 per cent).
In addition to the lower total volume, there was also a change in the distribution among the recipient countries. While Germany was still the most important recipient in October, it no longer appears in the November data. Instead, the majority of exports went to Japan, which received 6,207 kilograms. Further shipments went to South Korea with 872 kilograms and to Taiwan and Estonia with 100 kilograms each.
Growth in China's germanium exports
Germanium exports developed in the opposite direction. Exports had already more than doubled in October compared to September. This trend continued in November. At 1,688 kilograms, the export volume was a further 34 per cent higher than the previous month's figure.
The order of destination countries remained largely constant. As in October, Russia was the largest buyer with 1,270 kilograms, followed by Germany with 323 kilograms. In third place in November was France (94 kilograms), which displaced Taiwan from this position.
Development of Chinese gallium exports from November 2023 to November 2025.
Development of Chinese germanium exports from November 2023 to November 2025.
Dr Christian Hell, Senior Manager Germanium & Minor Metals, assesses the current figures: „There is still no sign of any easing in the germanium market. China continues to export comparatively small quantities, and to a limited number of countries. At the same time, prices in the Chinese domestic market are falling, while they remain stable in foreign trade. The domestic market appears to be sufficiently supplied.“
The global availability of gallium and germanium continues to be strongly influenced by the Chinese export licence system in place since summer 2023 characterised. As the dominant producer, China justifies the strict regulations with the possible use of the metals in military applications.
