With China covering, for instance, more than 95% of the rare earth market, you cannot replace this in a short time," he told DW. "These are long-standing and reliable trading relationships, and the material and processes are proven.
Lars Klingbeil's trip is the first visit to China by a cabinet minister of the current German government, and the trip to Berlin's most important trading partner comes at a sensitive time. Chinese export controls, especially on rare earths, have highlighted the German economy's heavy dependence on China. The German automotive industry, for example, has felt the effects as it faces a shortage of important parts. The trip comes six months into the current government's term