Critical raw materials as a strategic Achilles heel
Rare earths, magnesium, and aluminum are essential for key technologies such as electromobility, wind power, and modern communications technology—and thus also for economic and military performance. Although German companies have the capacity to refine and process these materials, the raw materials themselves must be imported.
For years, China has been pursuing a targeted raw materials policy, securing long-term access rights in Africa and Asia and driving out competitors with dumping prices, for example in the case of magnesium. The result is strategic dependencies that are clearly noticeable today.
Geopolitical differences – and Europe's need to catch up
The US is pursuing a strictly geopolitical raw materials strategy with the aim of minimizing its dependence on China and expanding its own processing capacity. The Inflation Reduction Act reinforces this course. Europe, on the other hand, has long adhered to a market-based approach and has only recently begun to respond with its own initiatives – but still too hesitantly.
