EU warns up to 560,000 jobs at risk from energy costs and deindustrialisation

The European Commission’s draft “Spring Package” warns that as many as 560,000 jobs in the EU could be jeopardised by 2026 because of soaring energy prices, industrial restructuring and the green transition. The most exposed sectors are construction, metallurgy, chemicals and transport, and the unemployment forecast has been revised up to 6% for 2026‑27. At the same time, EU governments are expected to see widening deficits.

In Greece, the Federation of Mining Companies (SEV) and the Mining Companies Association (SME) echo these concerns, arguing that Europe’s de‑industrialisation has heightened reliance on foreign raw materials and energy. They stress the need to revive manufacturing and mining to boost competitiveness. Greece is positioning itself to produce critical minerals such as copper and gallium by the end of 2026, with investments like the “Greek Gold” project in Skouriés and METLEN’s gallium production. The industry leaders call for supportive policy, streamlined licensing and societal acceptance to strengthen the country’s role in Europe’s raw‑material strategy.