the environment, said in a speech last month. “We are seeing a pattern across the board where China is trying to control the supply of critical minerals.” Antimony is a lesser-known metal used in batteries, flame retardants and semiconductors that’s caught up in the broader trade spat between the world’s two largest economies. Prices have surged to records this year, prompting some manufacturers to look for alternative materials. But antimony’s unique properties — such as making lead harder — mean it’s not easily substituted. That’s a concern for US defense contractors and chipmakers, which rely on the metal to make products that can withstand high temperatures and harsh environments. The ban could also hit US manufacturers of glass and ceramics, where antimony is used to give products a shiny finish. “The semiconductor industry is extremely sensitive to changes in the supply chain,” said Paul Kim, an analyst at Fastmarkets. “If there are any disruptions, it could have a significant impact on production and prices.” The latest restrictions have already led to delays in shipments of antimony from China to international consumers, with some buyers waiting more than two months for orders, according to people familiar with the matter. The tensions have prompted some end users to seek alternative supplies from sources such as Russia and Myanmar, even though those countries have their own geopolitical risks. Others are looking to recycle more antimony from scrap, which could help reduce demand for new metal. Some manufacturers are also considering investing in new antimony mines or refineries overseas, but such projects can take years to develop and may face obstacles such as permitting delays or financing challenges. In the meantime, industry players are bracing for potential further disruptions to the already strained supply chain. “The antimony market is extremely tight,” said Anita Li, an analyst at Fastmarkets. “Any additional restrictions could have a big impact on prices and availability.”\”
