The European Commission is currently assessing numerous applications for the second phase of the Critical Raw Materials (CRM) Act, aimed at ensuring Europe's long-term autonomy in essential mineral resources. This assessment process involves a total of 171 new applications covering the years 2025-2026, which are categorized as 'Strategic Projects' under the regulations of the CRM Act. The completion of these evaluations is crucial for Europe's policy towards securing a steady supply of critical materials necessary for various industries, especially in the context of sustainability and technological advancements.

Among the submitted applications are several from Greece, which indicate significant developments and prospects in the Greek mining sector. The Commission's announcement highlights that the substantial number of applications received for this second round reflects a persistent strong interest in obtaining the 'strategic project' status. This status is vital for projects seeking funding and support, and it emphasizes the growing importance of critical minerals in the European economy.

Looking ahead, the Commission plans to forward the complete application files to relevant national authorities, allowing member states to provide their feedback during the review process. This collaboration between the European Commission and national governments is essential for the successful implementation of the CRM Act. It not only supports individual national interests but also fosters a unified approach towards managing critical resource supplies across Europe, which is imperative given the current global supply chain challenges.