China Halts Germanium Supply to Germany - The "Ge Shock" Looms Over Germany: China's Tightening Highlights the Vulnerability of German Industry

China has tightened its export controls on germanium (Ge) by implementing a licensing system and banning exports, while also cracking down on circumvention. As a result, the global supply has rapidly tightened. As of July 2025, reports indicate that China's Ge exports have decreased by 95% compared to the beginning of the year, with prices soaring to approximately $5,000 per kilogram by September 2025. Germany, a hub for optics, defense, and optical communications, faces direct constraints on production plans due to difficulties in securing Ge and its precursor GeCl₄. On social media, there is widespread concern about the "weaponization of dependency on China" and calls for increased recycling and recovery within Europe, as well as the necessity for long-term offtake agreements. Proposed countermeasures include: ① investing in urban mining and byproduct recovery, ② diversifying supply sources in the US, Europe, and Australia, and procuring GeCl₄ within the region, ③ joint stockpiling and purchasing, and ④ reducing the unit consumption in design and processes. With this small element holding the lifeline of German industry, continuous investment over several years and redesigning contracts are essential.