China has banned the export of gallium, germanium, and antimony to the U.S.

China has announced an immediate ban on the export of “dual-use items” associated with gallium, germanium, antimony, and superhard materials to the United States, as stated by its commerce ministry on Tuesday. This decision follows the latest U.S. measures targeting China‘s semiconductor sector.

The ministry’s announcement emphasizes the need to protect national security and interests, and it mandates a more rigorous assessment of the end-use of graphite dual-use items sent to the U.S.

These new restrictions enhance the enforcement of previously established limits on the export of critical minerals, which China began implementing last year. However, they are specifically directed at the United States, marking a further escalation in trade tensions between the two largest economies as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office.

This move by China follows the U.S. government’s recent actions, which included a third round of restrictions in three years on China’s semiconductor industry, affecting 140 companies, including Naura Technology Group, a chip equipment manufacturer.

The ministry stated, “In principle, the export of gallium, germanium, antimony, and superhard materials to the United States shall not be permitted.”