BEIJING: China’s increased checks on ‘Indium’ exports have raised concerns among global buyers about the potential for tighter export controls on this strategically important metal.

Indium is widely used in displays, solder, and advanced optical chips that power next-generation AI data centers. China produces nearly 70 percent of global supply, giving it a dominant position in the market.

According to media reports, some overseas buyers have recently faced more detailed customs reviews. European buyers have revealed that Chinese authorities requested end-user information for the first time, while a North American buyer reported slower export approvals due to additional documentation requirements.

Although no shipments have been blocked and indium metal remains outside China’s export-control regime, industry participants fear the additional scrutiny could signal future restrictions. The concerns come after Beijing placed indium phosphide, a key material used in high-speed optical chips, under export controls in 2025.

The United States has already identified indium as a potential supply-chain vulnerability and is seeking to build strategic stockpiles of the metal.