'Not very transparent': Germany slams China's curbs on rare-earth exports; damaging relations as reliable trading partners, says foreign minister
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Speaking in Berlin on Thursday, German foreign minister Johann Wadephul said China's 'unilateral and often not very transparent' rules were damaging its reputation as a reliable partner.
'This uncertainty is damaging our trade relations and also damaging China's image in Germany as a reliable trading partner overall,' Wadephul said at a press conference alongside China's top diplomat, Wang Yi.
Since April, China has required companies to get licences before exporting rare earths, key materials used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, and electronics.
China is the world's biggest supplier of these materials, producing nearly two-thirds of all rare earths and over 90% of refined output, according to the International Energy Agency.
Wang defended the restrictions, saying the materials have both civilian and military uses and that China had the right to control their export. 'This is part of our sovereignty,' he said.
To ease concerns, China recently proposed creating a 'green channel' to make it easier for rare earth exports to the EU, but many companies remain worried about disruptions to supply.
Wadephul also raised the issue of China's ties to Russia and the war in Ukraine, warning against the supply of goods that could support Russia's military.
Wang responded firmly, saying: 'We are striving for peace and negotiation. We are not supplying lethal weapons to the parties involved in the conflict.'
China says it is neutral in the war, but Western countries argue that Beijing's trade and diplomatic support has helped Russia continue its offensive.
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Despite the disagreements, both sides stressed the need for continued cooperation. Wadephul said Germany and China must work together to tackle global problems, even as tensions grow over trade and security.
Wang's visit to Berlin was part of a wider European tour that includes France and Brussels, where he is trying to present China as a stable partner in contrast to the United States under US president Donald Trump's leadership.
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The Hindu
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Time of India
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OYO-owned European holiday home brand DanCenter plans to add 250 vacation homes in India in FY26
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