METLEN’s Gallium Project at Aluminium of Greece Earns EU Strategic Designation to Bolster Critical Raw Materials Supply

METLEN’s Gallium Project at Aluminium of Greece Earns EU Strategic Designation to Bolster Critical Raw Materials Supply

(IN BRIEF) METLEN’s major investment in gallium production at the historic Aluminium of Greece facility has been officially recognized as a Strategic Project under the Critical Raw Materials Act by the European Commission. This recognition, following a detailed evaluation by independent experts and approval by the European Critical Raw Materials Board, confirms the project’s pivotal role in strengthening Europe’s supply chain for critical raw materials such as bauxite, alumina, and gallium. Out of 170 projects across Europe, METLEN’s integrated project—covering bauxite mining, alumina production expansion, and the manufacture of 50 metric tons of gallium—was one of only 47 approved projects. The designation paves the way for expedited permitting, enhanced EU funding, and robust institutional support. It also marks the revival of new bauxite mining and increased alumina production in Europe, while replacing gallium imports. To highlight these achievements, METLEN will host Stéphane Séjourné, Executive Vice President of the European Commission, on March 27, 2025, at the Aluminium of Greece unit.

(PRESS RELEASE) ATHENS, 26-Mar-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Metlen Energy & Metals “METLEN” (OTCMKTS: MYTHY), a leading global industrial and energy company with a strong presence in all five continents covering two business Sectors, the Energy Sector and the Metallurgy Sector, announces that its flagship initiative in gallium production at the historic Aluminium of Greece industrial facility has now been designated a Strategic Project by the European Commission under the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA). After a thorough technical evaluation conducted by independent experts, the European Critical Raw Materials Board—which includes representatives from all 27 EU Member States along with participation from the European Parliament—recommended that METLEN’s investment be recognized as a Project of Strategic Importance for the Union. This decision, confirmed on March 25, 2025, represents a significant milestone for both European metallurgy and Greek mining, as it uniquely bolsters Europe’s strategic independence in critical raw materials such as bauxite, alumina (and aluminum), and gallium.

Out of 170 projects submitted from across Europe, only 47 projects spanning 13 Member States received approval. The inclusion of METLEN’s comprehensive project—which integrates bauxite mining, an expanded alumina production facility, and the production of 50 metric tons of gallium—underscores the vital role these materials play in reinforcing the resilience of Europe’s supply chain. Moreover, this strategic designation opens the door for expedited permitting, improved access to European funding, and increased institutional support from the EU.

With METLEN’s project now recognized as strategic, the industry can look forward to the resumption of new bauxite mining operations after decades of dormancy, a boost in alumina production—a sector that has experienced considerable setbacks in Europe—and ultimately, a complete replacement of gallium imports. These advancements are crucial for the production of essential equipment and technologies in the energy, digital, and defense sectors. In a show of support for the project, METLEN is proud to host Stéphane Séjourné, Executive Vice President of the European Commission, for an official visit to the Aluminium of Greece industrial unit on March 27, 2025, where the project’s impact on European strategic autonomy will be showcased.

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SOURCE: Metlen Εnergy & Metals