EU accelerates mineral self-sufficiency.

The European Union (EU) is accelerating plans to exploit key mineral resources in order to reduce its dependence on China.

Stephane Sejourne speaks at a press conference at Chateau de La Celle-Saint-Cloud, near Paris, on February 12, 2024. (Photo: AFP/VNA)

On March 27, European Commission Executive Vice President Stéphane Séjourné visited Greece to inspect an aluminum plant preparing to mine gallium, a metal used in advanced semiconductors, 5G antennas, solar cells, and military radar systems.

This project is among dozens announced by the EU last week aimed at strengthening the bloc's mineral self-sufficiency amid soaring demand for high-tech materials and escalating geopolitical tensions.

Mr. Séjourné stated that the project is one of 47 strategic projects selected to boost the production of key raw materials, thereby helping the EU reduce its dependence on third countries.

EU officials have noted that the COVID-19 pandemic, the conflict in Ukraine, and more recently, trade disputes, including China's export controls on high-tech materials last year, have highlighted the fragility of global supply chains.

The gallium project in Greece will exploit domestic bauxite resources and integrate the extraction process with existing aluminum infrastructure.

According to EU and Greek officials, the Greek energy and metals company Metlen Energy & Metals will operate the plant. When it becomes operational in 2027, the facility is expected to produce 50 tonnes of gallium per year, meeting a large portion of Europe's needs.

Greek Development Minister Takis Theodorikakos emphasized that this is a strategically significant investment that will enhance self-reliance and ensure security not only for Greece but also for all of Europe.

The EU will allocate a portion of its €22.5 billion ($24.2 billion) investment package to projects for the extraction and processing of 17 key minerals across 13 member states.

These minerals play a vital role in many high-tech products such as electric vehicles, battery components, lightweight alloys in the transportation industry, and medical equipment.
At a project launch event in Brussels earlier this week, Séjourné stressed that the EU needs public support for domestic mineral extraction.

Source: https://baotintuc.vn/the-gioi/eu-tang-toc-tu-chu-khoang-san-20250328113843854.htm