Kritische Rohstoffe - Die Achillesverse der USA im Wettstreit mit China

Abstract

The confrontation between the US and China in the current trade dispute is one of the first clashes between the established and the emerging world power. This contibution examines the special role of critical raw materials in the rivalry of the two countries. The analysis reveals the reliance of the United States on the supply of critical raw materials from China, which is a severe weakness of the US economy and military. The dependency leads to supply risks, undermines the American position in the conflict between the two countries and is an Achilles' heel that makes the US economy vulnerable. US politics seems to be aware of the risk, but their measures are not sufficient in order to reduce the supply risks and dependency associated with critical raw materials from China. A comprehensive and long-term oriented raw material strategy is required.