美国“缺镓”困境难解，98%的镓靠中国

Core Insights - China has implemented export controls on gallium, germanium, antimony, and superhard materials, significantly impacting global supply chains, particularly for the U.S. [1] - The U.S. relies on China for 98% of its gallium supply, which is critical for various sectors including advanced weapons, satellites, and consumer electronics [3] - The extraction of gallium is challenging due to its low concentration in ores, making China's established recycling technology a key competitive advantage [5] Group 1 - China's export controls on gallium and related materials have intensified the "gallium shortage" for the U.S. [1] - The U.S. has a yearly demand of approximately 20 tons of gallium, which is essential for its technology and defense industries [3] - The unique nature of gallium, being dispersed in low concentrations across various ores, complicates its extraction and recovery [5] Group 2 - The U.S. attempts to address its gallium shortage through primary extraction and recycling from semiconductor waste, but these methods face significant technical and economic challenges [7] - China's control over gallium not only gives it pricing power but also positions it as a critical player in the global technology supply chain [7] - The ongoing "gallium shortage" reflects a broader struggle over technological accumulation and control of supply chains, with China's recycling technology being a significant asset [7]