The Northern Miner tells their readers that a ban on germanium and gallium could cost the US $3.4 billion. They write:
America’s economy could see a US$3.4-billion hit if China imposes a total ban on gallium and germanium, according to a new report released by the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
China imposed export licensing controls on mineral commodities containing gallium and germanium last year. All exports require state approval, which established a pathway to progressive export restrictions.
Gallium prices could increase by more than 150% and germanium prices by 26% if there’s a total ban, the agency predicts. […]
“Magnesium is potentially the bigger issue however given its importance to a number of aluminium alloys, both for the beverage can and automotive industry. Previously, when China’s power shortage restricted magnesium exports, the value of magnesium-containing scrap jumped to a premium to London Metal Exchange aluminium.”
Read more here.
