EU industry calls for financial support for raw materials

European industry leaders are calling for financial support from EU funds to boost self-sufficiency in critical raw materials. This comes alongside the strategic classification of certain investments aimed at strengthening supply chains within the EU. One of these strategic investments is by Metlen, which plans to produce gallium in Greece. This project, located in Agios Nikolaos, Viotia, aims to meet the EU's gallium needs and is set to begin this year, expected to finish by 2027. Despite this timeline, there are concerns about energy costs impacting the competitiveness of European metallurgy. Solutions proposed include expanding liquefied natural gas infrastructure or restarting supplies from Russia. Industry figures urge the EU to prioritize energy issues to support vital sectors.