Germany's rare earth dependency highlights China's dominance
Compared to other European countries, Germany is particularly dependent on China for its rare earth metal imports. In 2024, 65.5% (3,400 kg) of these imports came from the People's Republic of China, as reported by the German Federal Statistical Office on Wednesday.
This share has slightly decreased compared to 2023, when it was 69.1%. Nevertheless, Germany remains reliant on China for the raw materials necessary for producing many advanced technological products. Across the entire EU, the share of imports from China was lower, at 46.3%, writes the weekly "Spiegel."
According to official statistics, the second most important country of origin for Germany's rare earth metals last year was Austria, with a 23.2% share of imports, followed by Estonia at 5.6%.
However, this does not mean that the resources are extracted there. Rare earth metals are further processed in these two European countries, and their original source cannot be statistically proven, claim German statisticians.
Rare earth metals consist of 17 elements essential for producing many modern technologies, from hybrid cars to weaponry. They are needed for manufacturing batteries, semiconductors, and magnets for electric motors, among other things.
These metals play an important role in the current trade conflict. In response to tariffs on imports imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, China restricted the export of rare earth metals a few days ago, emphasized "Spiegel."
