Minister of Development Visits Industrial Center in Boeotia to Highlight Strategic Investment

The Minister of Development, Takis Theodorikakos, visited the Industrial Centre of Agios Nikolaos in Boeotia today, accompanied by Deputy Minister Anna Mani-Papadimitriou, responsible for industrial affairs, and Stellina Siarapi, General Director of Private Investments. During the visit, they met with Evangelos Mytilineos, President and CEO of “Metlen Energy & Metals,” and toured the pilot production facilities for aluminum and gallium.

A Strategic €295.5 Million Investment

Metlen is advancing a strategic investment valued at €295.5 million, a project that will enhance Greece’s standing in the global market by securing critical raw materials for modern industries, including bauxite, alumina, and gallium.

The planned expansion of the facility will enable an annual production capacity of 1.25 million tons of alumina, placing Greece among the top 12 alumina producers worldwide. Additionally, gallium production—50 tons annually—will commence for the first time in the region’s industrial history. This step aligns with Europe’s aim to bolster its strategic autonomy, particularly given China’s export restrictions on critical materials.

Currently employing 1,700 workers, the facility is expected to generate significant additional job opportunities through this investment.

Minister’s Remarks on Greece’s Industrial Growth

During the visit, Minister Theodorikakos emphasized the importance of this project:

“It is a great pleasure to be here today, especially following the announcement by the Mytilineos Group. Our government’s strategy focuses on the productive reconstruction of the Greek economy by enhancing industry, innovation, and exports. This approach not only reduces the trade deficit but also paves the way for further tax reductions and boosts the disposable income of Greek citizens, creating a robust and sustainable economic foundation for the entire country.

This €300 million investment significantly elevates Greece’s position on the global and European industrial map. By enabling gallium production, Europe will move closer to self-sufficiency in critical raw materials essential for new technologies, the defense industry, and green transition initiatives like photovoltaics. These advancements will drive increased exports and create new jobs. Our government fully supports such strategic investments, as they strengthen Greece’s global competitiveness.”

Evangelos Mytilineos Celebrates the Milestone

Evangelos Mytilineos expressed his enthusiasm for the project and the government’s support, stating:

“It is a great honor to welcome Minister Theodorikakos to our facilities. His presence marks a day of celebration for us, following the announcement of a transformative investment that puts Greece on the map of critical raw materials and alumina—a resource rare worldwide.

I am deeply proud of this investment and the strong partnership we have with the state, exemplified by the Minister’s visit. For the thousands of people working here, it is encouraging to see the government stand firmly beside us.”

Strengthening Greece’s Industrial Future

This strategic investment underscores Greece’s commitment to industrial growth, job creation, and economic sustainability, enhancing its role in global and European markets. By focusing on critical raw materials and fostering partnerships between the state and private sector, Greece is poised to strengthen its industrial and economic landscape for the future.