A survey of the industry association Swissmem shows that nearly three-quarters of the industrial companies are dependent on commodities, the very short time could be scarce. But every third company is doing nothing against the resulting risks.
They are found in monitors, cell phones, magnets, electric motors and batteries: The rare earth minerals called. The materials are also called "spice metals" because they are used as spices in small doses - also decide the success. About 97 percent of world production of rare earths come from China. Since the country has restricted the export, the industrial nations tremble. They fear running out of their high-tech industrial commodities.
The Swiss industry is affected by the problem. This shows a previously unpublished survey by the Association of Swiss engineering, electrical and metal industry (Swissmem). About a fifth of the 1,000 member companies work in one form or another with commodities from the group of rare earths.
