China's Rare Mineral Ban Threatens US Tech and Economy

China has banned the export of key rare minerals, including gallium and germanium, to the United States, citing national security concerns. This decision is expected to cost the US economy $34 billion over a decade, as these materials are crucial for semiconductor production and other technologies. The ban escalates tensions between the two nations and could disrupt supply chains, increase costs, and impact industries reliant on these materials, such as electronics and electric vehicles.