According to the Association of Mining Companies, overcoming competitive disadvantages is crucial for tapping into Greece’s subsoil wealth within the context of European critical mineral raw material policies.
“As mineral raw materials become increasingly important for economic growth and geopolitical stability, Greece possesses the deposits and infrastructure to take a leading role,” stated the chairman of the Association, Konstantinos Giazitzolgou.
The Association’s president emphasized that addressing long-standing issues is essential for the Greek mining industry to significantly aid the EU’s self-sufficiency in critical mineral raw materials, as outlined in the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA). This involves utilizing vital materials found in Greece, such as bauxite, copper, and gallium.
Looking towards 2025, Giazitzoglou expressed optimism for the mining sector, noting that Greece is set to enhance its status on the map of critical and strategic mineral raw materials, particularly in copper, bauxite, and gallium. Additionally, projects related to antimony, germanium, tungsten, and potentially scandium are progressing through various development stages. Noteworthy investments, including those from Hellas Gold and METLEN, along with several smaller projects, are sustaining high investment momentum in the sector. The year has begun positively for industrial minerals, with robust construction activity and Greek marble gradually regaining its place in international markets.