China's export ban: A new part in trade problems between the U.S.and China.

China is banning exports of important materials to the United States. These materials, like gallium and germanium, are used to make computer chips and other technology. This ban is a response to the United States limiting exports of chip-making equipment to China. Both countries say these actions are necessary for their national security.

China is also upset about the United States adding more Chinese companies to a list of businesses that face strict export controls. China says this is unfair and hurts Chinese companies. The United States says these controls are needed to protect its security, while China says they are hurting the global economy.

China is a major producer of these important materials, and the United States relies on China for a lot of its supply. The ban could make it harder and more expensive for the United States to get these materials. The United States does have its own deposits of these materials but hasn't been mining them. However, there are projects underway to explore ways to start using those resources.

Several Chinese industry groups are protesting the United States' actions, saying they are disrupting supply chains and hurting businesses. They argue that using national security as a reason for these controls is unfair. These groups believe that the United States is abusing its power and that these actions will ultimately harm everyone involved.

The export restrictions have already started to affect prices. For example, the price of antimony has more than doubled this year. Prices for other materials like gallium and germanium have also generally gone up. It remains to be seen how this situation will develop and what the long-term impact will be on both countries and the global technology industry.