China’s imposition of export restrictions on crucial semiconductor metals has created significant disruptions in global supply chains, raising concerns about potential chip shortages for Western manufacturers and consumers.

The metals in question, gallium and germanium, are essential components in semiconductor chips, communications infrastructure, and military equipment. In 2022, China was the leading global producer of gallium, accounting for over 98% of total production, according to Statista. For germanium, China produced approximately 60% of the world’s supply, as reported by the Critical Raw Materials Alliance.

The Chinese government announced these export restrictions in July 2023, with the measures coming into effect in August. The restrictions have led to sharp price increases for both gallium and germanium, particularly affecting Europe. Data from the Financial Times indicates that Chinese exports of germanium fell from 13,514 kg in the latter half of 2022 to 12,410 kg in the first half of 2024. Similarly, gallium exports dropped from 28,000 kg in the first half of 2023 to 16,000 kg in the second half of the same year.

China has justified these export restrictions as necessary to protect its national interests and security. However, many speculate that the move is a retaliatory measure against U.S. export controls imposed on advanced semiconductor chips and production equipment, affecting Chinese companies such as Huawei. The U.S. has implemented these controls to limit China’s access to high-tech components used in military applications and artificial intelligence.

In response, China has also restricted exports of graphite and antimony, the latter being used in armor-piercing ammunition. Gallium and germanium are critical for a range of applications including bulbs, transistors, medical devices, thermometers, infrared optical instruments, and fiber-optic cables. The restrictions are expected to lead to shortages and price hikes in these sectors.

The U.S. International Trade Commission has warned that the global supply chain for these metals will face significant adjustments due to China’s new export controls, which took effect on August 1, 2023. The U.S. remains heavily reliant on imports of these minerals, particularly from China, given its dominant position as a major supplier.

European companies currently have some stockpiles of gallium to manage short-term needs, but the long-term outlook remains uncertain. SEMI Europe, a microelectronics industry association, highlighted that scaling up domestic production in Europe would require substantial time and investment. The establishment of a robust production infrastructure for these metals in Europe could take several years, leaving the region vulnerable to ongoing supply chain disruptions.

As the 2024 election approaches in just three months, thousands of supporters have flocked to Chicago for the Democratic National Convention, which kicked off with significant events and high-profile speakers. This week, the convention is being held at the United Center Arena, where Vice President Kamala Harris is the focal point of the party’s gathering.

The convention began on Monday with a powerful prime-time address from President Joe Biden. His speech, marked by emotional moments and enthusiastic applause, set the tone for the week. On Tuesday, the event featured the ceremonial roll call vote, in which state delegations officially endorsed the Harris-Walz ticket. The evening concluded with stirring speeches from former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama, celebrating the party’s vision and leadership.

With President Biden having withdrawn from the race, Vice President Harris has been confirmed as the Democratic nominee for the 2024 presidential election. The roll call vote on Tuesday was largely symbolic, highlighted by performances from celebrities like rapper Lil Jon.

Wednesday’s program includes a notable lineup of Democratic leaders. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, the party’s nominee for vice president, is set to deliver a key speech. The evening will also feature addresses from rising stars in the party, including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Additionally, former President Bill Clinton, former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries are scheduled to speak.

Senators Cory Booker of New Jersey, Chris Murphy of Connecticut, Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, and Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota will also take the stage. Two Democratic governors, Shapiro and Moore, representing the new generation of party leadership, are expected to play prominent roles. The night will also include remarks from Olivia Troye, a former Trump administration official, and Geoff Duncan, the former lieutenant governor of Georgia.

The convention’s final and most anticipated event will occur on Thursday, when Vice President Harris will formally accept the presidential nomination. Her speech, themed “For the Future,” is expected to be a highlight of the convention.

Despite some delays on Monday, DNC organizers have adjusted the schedule to ensure a smooth flow of events. The convention is a crucial moment for the Democratic Party as it gears up for the upcoming election, showcasing its leadership and setting the stage for the campaign ahead.

Police in Istanbul have launched a major investigation following a shooting that resulted in the death of a Palestinian man and injuries to two others on Sunday night. The incident occurred as the victims were seated in a car on Dilaver Street in the Kagithane district of northern Istanbul.

According to the Istanbul Governor’s Office, the shooter left behind a handgun fitted with a silencer at the scene. The Demiroren News Agency reported that the victim sitting in the driver’s seat was killed, while his friend sustained serious injuries. Another individual, identified by the governor’s office as the deceased man’s bodyguard, was injured in the foot.

The identities of the victims have not been publicly disclosed beyond their initials. The professional nature of the attack has led to speculation in Turkish media about possible links to Israel or business-related disputes. Turkey has long been a refuge for Hamas officials, and in December, the head of Israel’s Shin Bet security agency indicated that his organization was prepared to target Hamas operatives anywhere, including Turkey.

The shooting was reportedly carried out by a masked assailant or assailants, according to the Demiroren News Agency. The seriously wounded victim has been described as a businessman.

Photographs from the scene reveal a semi-automatic handgun with a silencer lying on the sidewalk beside a white car, which was parked between two other vehicles. The rear passenger door of the car appeared to have multiple bullet holes.

Video footage released by Demiroren News Agency shows police forensic teams examining the scene and using laser pens to track the trajectory of the bullets. The footage also captured the transfer of a body from the car to an ambulance.

Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the motive behind the shooting and identify the perpetrators.