Belgium has approved a state guarantee to support advance payments for future germanium supplies from a facility in the Democratic Republic of Congo, strengthening Europe’s efforts to reduce its dependence on Chinese critical minerals. The guarantee will enable Brussels-based refiner Umicore to secure future deliveries while transferring part of the commercial risk to the Belgian government. The facility, operated by a subsidiary of Congo’s state miner Gécamines, could eventually supply up to 15% of global germanium demand once fully operational. Germanium is an essential mineral used in semiconductors, fiber-optic networks, and infrared defense systems. China currently produces about 60% of the world’s supply and has restricted exports since 2023, prompting Europe to diversify its sources. The plant began commercial shipments in late 2024 and produced an estimated four to five metric tons of germanium last year.
Semafor