Overview
- vbw data indicate samarium, praseodymium and neodymium rose about 23–25% year over year, while cobalt and tungsten roughly doubled, with gains also reported in copper, aluminum and lithium.
- The sector’s price index stands about 48.1% above the 2019 average after a six‑year upswing, underscoring persistent cost pressure.
- Industry groups report delayed and reduced deliveries, higher procurement costs and a risk of production stoppages for metal and electrical firms.
- Audi and business associations call for expanded recycling capacity and diversified sourcing to reduce exposure and secure supplies.
- China processes roughly 90% of rare earths and has previously curbed exports, and although researchers highlight old volcanic centers as potential new deposits, any new supply would require years of exploration and permitting under Germany’s existing strategy framework.