China’s strategic control over rare earth elements has become a key point of leverage in its trade disputes with the United States. This situation has now reached Germany, whose defense sector is heavily dependent on these critical metals for the manufacturing of advanced weaponry. The ongoing trade tensions between China and the U.S. are creating significant uncertainty for Germany’s ability to maintain its defense capabilities.
The nation’s reliance on Chinese rare earth exports highlights vulnerabilities in its supply chain, prompting calls for diversification and alternative sourcing strategies to ensure national security and industrial resilience. German defense officials have expressed concerns over the potential for supply disruptions, which could impact the production of key military equipment, including missiles and precision-guided munitions. The situation underscores the broader implications of geopolitical tensions on critical industries and supply chains across the globe.