China tightens indium export checks as AI demand increases

China is stepping up scrutiny of indium exports, with buyers facing extra paperwork and delays — sparking fears of possible future export controls.
Indium (China makes ~70% of the supply) is used in displays and as the base for indium phosphide, a key material for high-speed optical chips in AI data centers — an issue raised by a chipmaker CEO during a recent Beijing visit.
The industry is uneasy about tighter rules, while the U.S. is already moving to secure supplies (Defense Logistics Agency sought to stockpile up to 403 tons).