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Diversifying European Supply Chains: Can Africa Play a Role?

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  • Rainer Thiele
  • Tomke Necker
  • Cara Spitzer

Abstract

Multiple geopolitical disruptions have highlighted the need for firms to diversify their supply chains. For Germany and the EU, this might imply an increased reliance on Africa, the neighboring continent, for example when it comes to sourcing critical raw materials for the energy transition towards renewables. In this paper, we critically assess whether Africa can indeed play a significant role in Europe’s strategy of diversifying supply chains and reducing its dependence on China in particular. Trans-Abstract: Eine Vielzahl geopolitischer Verwerfungen haben für Unternehmen die Notwendigkeit deutlich gemacht, Lieferketten stärker zu diversifizieren. Für Deutschland und die EU könnte dies zu einer stärkeren Hinwendung zum Nachbarkontinent Afrika führen, etwa wenn es darum geht, die Versorgung mit kritischen Rohstoffen für die Energiewende sicherzustellen. In diesem Artikel wird kritisch diskutiert, ob Afrika eine nennenswerte Rolle dabei spielen kann, Europas Lieferketten zu diversifizieren und insbesondere die Abhängigkeit von China zu reduzieren.

Suggested Citation

  • Rainer Thiele & Tomke Necker & Cara Spitzer, 2025. "Diversifying European Supply Chains: Can Africa Play a Role?," Vierteljahreshefte zur Arbeits- und Wirtschaftsforschung, Duncker & Humblot, Berlin, vol. 2(1), pages 79-88.
    • Handle: RePEc:dah:aeqvaw:v2_y2025_i1_q1_p79-88
    DOI: 10.3790/vaw.2.1.79
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • F15 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Economic Integration
    • L67 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Manufacturing - - - Other Consumer Nondurables: Clothing, Textiles, Shoes, and Leather Goods; Household Goods; Sports Equipment
    • L72 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Primary Products and Construction - - - Mining, Extraction, and Refining: Other Nonrenewable Resources

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