Germany Faces €115 Billion Risk Due to Raw Material Dependence
A new study highlights Germany's increasing reliance on Chinese lithium imports, threatening industrial output.
- The Bundesverband der Deutschen Industrie (BDI) warns that a halt in Chinese lithium exports could lead to a €115 billion loss in industrial value creation.
- Germany imports 50% of its lithium products from China, a significant increase from 18% in 2014, raising concerns about the country's economic vulnerability.
- The automotive industry is particularly at risk, as lithium is crucial for electric vehicle battery production.
- The BDI study suggests diversifying supply sources and enhancing domestic raw material processing to mitigate risks.
- Recycling technologies and a circular economy are recommended as strategies to reduce dependency on critical raw materials.