Germany is deeply dependent on China for medicines, especially generics and key active ingredients. According to a recent report, around 76% of the active ingredients for antibiotics imported into Germany come from China.
For example, the widely used diabetes drug metformin largely relies on 80% of its chemical precursor coming from China.
German pharmacies can rarely operate without supplies sourced or processed in China or India—even drugs produced in Europe often contain Chinese components.
This dependence becomes a strategic concern when Chinese factories face disruptions or when Beijing uses trade as leverage. For Germany, even if direct shortages are rare, the risk remains significant.
Experts say rebuilding full production capacity in Germany is unrealistic due to high costs and a shortage of skilled labour. Instead, they call for stronger innovation, supply-chain diversification and support for local pharmaceutical manufacturing.
