Metlen Energy & Metals has announced a major investment of 300 million euros, focusing on teh production of critical raw materials such as alumina and bauxite, as well as the progress of a new plant for the production of Gallium. This measure confirms the group’s commitment to strengthening the European production of materials that the EU considers to be of strategic importance.
Evangelos Mytilinaios, president and CEO of metlen, made the announcement thru a post that highlighted the challenges facing European industry in the field of raw materials.
European industry needs to be supported
Mr. Mytilineos pointed out that Europe’s dependence on imported vital raw materials has increased, due to the lack of an appropriate support policy for the existing industries.
The materials included in the investment – alumina, bauxite and gallium – are listed in the list of Critical and Strategic Raw Materials of the European Union.
Expectations from the new European Commission
The head of Metlen asked the new leadership of the European Commission to take measures that will facilitate the development of the mining and metallurgical industry.
As he pointed out, immediate incentives and the removal of bureaucratic obstacles are needed so that European companies can play an active role in the production of these vital raw materials.
How can companies in Europe effectively navigate regulatory challenges in the mining and metallurgical sectors?
Interview with Evangelos Mytilinaios, President and CEO of Metlen Energy & Metals
Editor, Time.news: Thank you for joining us, Mr. Mytilinaios. Your recent declaration about a €300 million investment in critical raw materials, including alumina, bauxite, and gallium, has garnered significant attention.Can you explain why this investment is essential for the European industry?
evangelos Mytilinaios: Thank you for having me. our investment signifies a crucial step towards enhancing Europe’s self-sufficiency in vital raw materials. Increasing dependency on imported materials has become a pressing issue, and investing in the production of alumina, bauxite, and gallium directly addresses this challenge. These materials are not just essential for our industry; they are classified as critical and Strategic Raw Materials by the European Union, making their production pivotal for the sustainability and competitiveness of European industries.
Editor, time.news: You mentioned the challenges facing European industry in your announcement. What specific challenges do you see that are impacting raw material production in Europe?
Evangelos Mytilinaios: One of the primary challenges is the lack of supportive policies for existing industries. Europe has been slow to develop a comprehensive framework that encourages domestic production. This means our industries frequently enough have to rely on external sources, which can lead to supply chain vulnerabilities. in addition,there is a significant lag in addressing bureaucratic hurdles that stifle innovation and expansion in the mining and metallurgical sectors.
Editor, Time.news: You have called for immediate action from the new European Commission. What specific measures do you hope they’ll implement to support the mining and metallurgical industry?
Evangelos Mytilinaios: We urge the new leadership to prioritize creating incentives that promote investment in local raw material production. This includes simplifying regulations and reducing bureaucratic obstacles that discourage companies from entering the market. By fostering an environment conducive to growth, European companies can become key players in producing and enduring sourcing of these vital materials.
Editor, Time.news: For our readers who might be interested in these developments within the mining and energy sectors, what practical advice would you offer regarding how to navigate this evolving landscape?
Evangelos Mytilinaios: Understanding the regulatory environment and seeking ways to engage with policymakers is essential for companies wanting to thrive in this sector. Moreover, businesses should actively collaborate with industry stakeholders—such as suppliers, governments, and research institutions—to innovate and improve production methods. Staying informed about market trends related to critical raw materials can provide a competitive advantage.
Editor, Time.news: In light of global trends, do you believe there is a shift occurring in how Europe approaches raw materials, especially in terms of sustainability and technology?
Evangelos Mytilinaios: Absolutely. There is a growing recognition that sustainable practices and technological advancements are essential for the future of material production. The integration of green technologies in mining and metallurgical processes not only reduces environmental impact but also aligns with the EU’s long-term sustainability goals. We believe that with the right support and investments, Europe can become a leader in responsible and innovative raw material production.
Editor, Time.news: Thank you, Mr. Mytilinaios, for sharing your insights. Your work at Metlen Energy & Metals is vital for the future of the European industry, and we look forward to seeing how these developments unfold.
Evangelos Mytilinaios: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure discussing these crucial issues. Together, we can build a stronger European industry that is both competitive and sustainable.