Im Rachen des Dragen: Wie abhägig ist Deutschland vom Reich der Mitte?

China's economic dependence can become a problem for Germany in the event of a crisis. That is why we ask, what economic implications do we have for China? What could be threatened by a break with China? And how could we become more independent? For Germany, China has been the most important trading partner for years. It was more than 245 billion euros in 2021. The German economy is therefore dependent on China. Electronic devices and their components are mainly imported, but also toys and furniture, as well as chemical products for the industry. Almost half of German industrial companies require important subsidies from China, especially the automotive industry. Conversely, China also imports a lot of goods from Germany. Mainly machines, cars and car parts, as well as electronics. For China, Germany is even the most important partner within the EU, because in total, the Federal Republic exports as much as the next 10 EU countries combined. Example e-car. For production in the EU, parts from different countries are supplied, many of them from China. The great dependence is mainly shown in the heart of the vehicle, the battery. Its production requires critical raw materials, such as graphite. This is supported by 74% in China. But not only important raw materials, but also complete batteries are imported. For example, in 2020, Germany imported almost a third of its lithium-ion batteries from China. In addition, China imports over 85% of the world's permanent magnets, which are used in electric motors. If the supply chain breaks down at one of these points, the entire production will come to a standstill. But China is also dependent, especially on goods and services in vehicle and machine construction. Here, Germany's share is more than 70%. 2,300 German companies have subsidiaries or subsidiaries in the country. For example, VW owns 33 Chinese factories for the production of vehicles and components and sells over 40% of its cars there. If a break were to occur, not only the sales for the German company would fall, but also the Chinese jobs. The technological know-how from Germany would also be missing. A trade war with China would be a loss for both sides. Germany therefore wants to focus on diversification, as already in the energy sector. Experts recommend checking global supply chains and expanding supplier networks. Almost every second German company that does business with China is already preparing to expand. Change the investment strategy. So invest more in other Asian countries like Indonesia and Vietnam, and also in Europe. Conclude further trade agreements with other countries. This would make it easier for domestic companies to access new suppliers and subsidiary markets. And reduce the share of Chinese imports in important raw materials. Graphite could also be imported from Mozambique, Brazil and Madagascar, for example. In addition, Germany and the EU are already planning to stimulate domestic raw material production and reduce the need for imports through more intensive recycling. The economic relations between Germany and China are diverse. It would be a force to use in the event of a crisis, and would harm both sides economically. That is why alternatives are already being built to broaden trade relations worldwide.