Written by Alyssa Varas

What’s going on: China has imposed export restrictions on gallium and germanium, two minerals deemed crucial by the U.S. for the production of semiconductors, missile systems, and solar cells. Effective August 1, this move is seen as a flex of muscle before impending economic negotiations between the two powerhouse nations. It comes after Washington blocked exports to China of equipment used in the creation of high-tech semiconductors in October.