Backdoor metals: US is still getting China's banned antimony -- just via Thailand and Mexico

[Judi Lynn]

Thursday, 10 Jul 2025 7:00 AM MYT

BEIJING, July 10 — Unusually large quantities of antimony — a metal used in batteries, chips and flame retardants — have poured into the United States from Thailand and Mexico since China barred US shipments last year, according to customs and shipping records, which show at least one Chinese-owned company is involved in the trade.

China dominates the supply of antimony as well as gallium and germanium, used in telecommunications, semiconductors and military technology. Beijing banned exports of these minerals to the US on December 3 following Washington’s crackdown on China’s chip sector.

The resulting shift in trade flows underscores the scramble for critical minerals and China’s struggle to enforce its curbs as it vies with the US for economic, military and technological supremacy.

Specifically, trade data illustrate a re-routing of US shipments via third countries — an issue Chinese officials have acknowledged.
Three industry experts corroborated that assessment, including two executives at two US companies who told Reuters they had obtained restricted minerals from China in recent months.

More:
https://www.malaymail.com/news/money/2025/07/10/backdoor-metals-us-is-still-getting-chinas-banned-antimony-just-via-thailand-and-mexico/183324