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The announcement follows the European Commission\u2019s release this week of a list of 47 strategic projects, including initiatives in Greece, aimed at enhancing the EU\u2019s supply of materials vital for its energy transition and security. Gallium is among the key minerals highlighted in the plan.<\/p>\n
\u201cStarting in 2028, Metlen\u2019s gallium output of 50 tonnes will fully satisfy EU needs,\u201d said Evangelos Mytilineos, the company\u2019s president and CEO, during a press briefing.<\/p>\n
The move comes as China, which controls 98.8% of global refined gallium production, introduced export restrictions on the metal earlier this year. Metlen, already active in bauxite processing, plans to invest \u20ac300 million to extract gallium from raw materials. The company also aims to expand into the production of rare-earth metal scandium and germanium, the latter widely used in military applications.<\/p>\n
During a visit to Metlen\u2019s mining operations in Greece, European Commission Vice President Stephane Sejourne, who oversees the EU\u2019s industrial strategy, expressed support for the project. \u201cGreece has a significant role to play in the supply of critical minerals,\u201d Sejourne told reporters.<\/p>\n