More than a Brief Visit – Franziska Giffey at the Berlin-Tegel Free Customs Warehouse

Rare earths and technology metals are regarded as essential components of modern industry: whether electromobility, renewable energies, medical technology, or defense – without these metals, production comes to a standstill. Europe’s dependence, particularly Germany’s, on non-European supplier countries – especially China – is an open secret. The latest export restrictions have made it clear: the raw materials issue has long since become a geopolitical challenge.

Therefore, Ms. Giffey’s dedicated interest during her visit was all the more gratifying: she showed openness to the complex interdependencies of raw material supply. Her interest demonstrates that the topic has already arrived in Berlin’s economic policy – now it is crucial to integrate well-founded practical insights into political decisions. In the secure environment of our free customs warehouse, we shared our expertise and demonstrated concrete mechanisms: secure storage, industrial traceability, and independent stockpiling.

What is often underestimated as a technical detail is, in reality, a geopolitical lever: those who possess infrastructure such as duty-free storage facilities with digital control, traceable origin, and physical security gain a real competitive advantage. Supply security is not a luxury – it is a fundamental prerequisite for the future viability of Berlin, Germany, and Europe.

Politicians are obliged to promote and help shape such structures – particularly through the diversification of supply chains. This is the only way to minimize the risk of production downtime for our industry and secure the long-term economic prosperity of our country. Yesterday’s visit shows: awareness is growing – also thanks to personalities like Franziska Giffey, who not only take the time but also listen, understand, and share responsibility.

The fact that an originally short appointment developed into an intensive, professionally sound exchange shows: the topic not only strikes a chord with the times – it also demands concrete action. Even more important, however, is the realization of how much can be achieved when politics, business, and industry engage in constructive dialogue.
We thank Ms. Giffey for her genuine interest, her openness, and her willingness to think about solutions together. Because one thing is clear: if we do not act now, more than a bottleneck threatens – then the production lines will indeed soon come to a standstill here.