Timing of China’s New Germanium Export Restrictions Couldn’t Be Better for the DR Congo

China’s announcement this month that it would limit the export of two metals used to manufacture semiconductors and other defense technologies could provide a huge opportunity for DR Congo’s state-run mining company Gécamines which is planning to open a new mining facility for one of those resources.

Gécamines officials said last week that a new germanium plant will open in September that, when fully operational, will produce up to 30 tons a year of the precious metal.

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by Eric Olander

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