After China imposed an export ban on gallium and germanium, interest in sourcing these metals from Canadian company Neo Performance Materials surged. These rare metals, essential for semiconductors and clean energy technologies, have become increasingly vital amid rising geopolitical tensions. Despite the production capability in Canada, trade tariffs could complicate the situation. The Biden administration's decisions regarding semiconductor exports and the use of these materials in advanced technologies are pivotal in shaping future supply chains.
Since Tsianos started receiving those calls, tensions over the 31st element on the periodic table - as well as the 32nd, germanium, have escalated.
In North America, it's the only industrial-scale producer of the metal, which is used in not only chips but also clean energy technologies and military equipment.
Since the ban, several companies in the US and Canada are considering expanding production of the rare metals to help meet US demand.
China, the world's leading producer by far, had just announced new export controls on gallium, apparently in response to reports that the US government was considering restrictions.
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