How U.S. Buyers Are Getting Critical Minerals Despite China’s Ban

American companies keep getting key minerals for electronics and defense, even after China banned exports to the US in late 2024.

Official trade data shows that, since the ban, the US has imported over 3,800 metric tons of antimony oxide from Thailand and Mexico—more than three years’ worth in just five months. This metal is crucial for batteries, chips, and fire-resistant materials.

Yet, neither Thailand nor Mexico mines much antimony, and each has only one smelter. Mexico’s only smelter even reopened just this April.

Chinese customs data reveals that, since the ban, China has sent much more antimony to these two countries, making them top buyers this year. Before the ban, they were not even in the top ten.

Records show that a Thai company owned by China’s Youngsun Chemicals shipped over 3,300 tons of antimony products to the US in just five months—27 times more than last year.

The US buyer, Youngsun & Essen in Texas, used to import directly from China. Industry experts confirm that US buyers now get Chinese minerals through third countries.

Shipments are sometimes relabeled as other goods to avoid detection. This process costs more and carries risks, but US law allows it as long as the minerals do not come straight from China.

China has started cracking down on these workarounds, threatening fines and prison for violators. But with prices high and demand strong, the trade continues.

The facts show that trade finds a way, even when governments try to block it. As long as the US needs these minerals for technology and defense, companies will keep finding new routes—raising costs but keeping supply steady.

This matters because these minerals are in products everyone uses, from smartphones to cars, and because the struggle over them shapes the global economy.