After China banned exports of key minerals like antimony, gallium, and germanium to the US in December 2024, American companies have found a way around it — by importing these materials through Thailand and Mexico.
According to news, US imports of antimony oxides from these two countries shot up between December 2024 and April 2025, totaling over 3,800 metric tons — more than the combined total of the past three years.
Antimony is an important mineral used in batteries, semiconductors, and fire safety materials. While China blocked direct exports, US companies are still buying Chinese-origin materials, just through different routes.
How the Workaround Works:
Chinese sellers send antimony to buyers in Thailand or Mexico, who then relabel the goods (sometimes as “iron” or “art supplies”) and ship them to the US. This method is called transshipment.
One buyer, Levi Parker, CEO of Gallant Metals, said large shipments are risky, so they keep it small to avoid detection. Even though US law allows Chinese-origin minerals if they come through legal intermediaries, the method being used often hides the true origin of the materials.
In response, China started cracking down on these loopholes. Its commerce ministry warned that some foreign companies are working with local partners to break the rules and said stronger enforcement is necessary. Chinese companies now risk heavy penalties, including fines and jail, if they break these laws — even outside of China.
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Big Jump in Exports from Thailand & Mexico:
Thailand and Mexico, which don’t produce much antimony themselves, suddenly became major exporters. For example, Thai Unipet Industries, linked to a Chinese company, shipped over 3,300 tons to the US in just five months — 27 times more than the same period a year ago.
Trade data shows these exports are now going to Texas-based Youngsun & Essen, a former direct buyer from China. However, the exact origin of the antimony remains unclear as none of the companies involved responded to Reuters’ questions.
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High Demand Keeps the Trade Alive:
Despite efforts to stop illegal trade, the high prices of these rare minerals mean people are still finding ways to move them. As demand grows, prices for antimony, gallium, and germanium have hit record highs.
As Ram Ben Tzion, a shipping expert, explained, “It’s one thing to make laws — but enforcing them properly is a different challenge.”
