What is gallium?
Elemental gallium is a soft, silvery metal at standard temperature and pressure. It is used in high-tech applications and electroluminescent devices across the space, defense, medical and commercial industries.
Why is it critical?
China produces 98% of low-purity gallium and is the leading global exporter. Around 53% of gallium imported into the U.S. comes from China. This leaves the U.S. reliant on China for a smooth supply of gallium necessary to build high-tech and defense equipment.
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In December 2024, China banned exports of gallium, germanium, antimony, and other critical materials to the United States — triggering a major acceleration of US domestic supply chain policy. China had already restricted antimony exports from late 2024. These actions directly catalysed the Section 232 investigation launched in January 2026 and elevated CMA USA's policy work to its highest strategic importance.
How is it extracted?
Most of primary gallium is recovered as a byproduct of processing bauxite and, the reminder produced from zinc-processing residues.
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No domestic primary (low-purity, unrefined) gallium has been recovered in the U.S. since 1987.
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However, some domestic zinc ores contain up to 50 parts per million gallium and could be a significant resource.
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High-purity gallium can be recovered from scrap and low-purity gallium metal. ​