Eldorado Gold Corporation has confirmed that it has processed the first ore at its long-delayed Skouries gold-copper project in northern Greece, a significant operational milestone for the Canadian-listed miner. The company stated that the initial processing marks the beginning of a ramp-up phase at the site, which is expected to become one of Europe's largest gold mines.
The Skouries project, located in the Halkidiki peninsula, has been a subject of controversy for years, facing protests from local communities and environmental groups over concerns about water usage and potential pollution. Regulatory hurdles and legal challenges repeatedly pushed back the timeline, with construction halted for extended periods before recent approvals allowed work to resume.
Eldorado Gold's shares traded higher on the Toronto Stock Exchange following the announcement, reflecting investor optimism about the project's progress. For UK investors and pension funds with exposure to mining equities, the development is a positive signal for gold supply growth in Europe, though analysts caution that full commercial production remains subject to further ramp-up and ongoing regulatory compliance.
Gold prices have remained elevated in 2026, supported by global economic uncertainty and central bank buying. The addition of Skouries' output—estimated to contain significant gold and copper reserves—could help meet demand but may also weigh on prices if supply increases faster than anticipated. The mining sector has seen renewed interest as a hedge against inflation, with UK-listed miners such as Fresnillo and Centamin also benefiting from the broader trend.
Industry analysts note that while the first ore processing is a crucial step, investors should monitor operational costs and any further legal challenges in Greece. The project is seen as strategically important for European metal supply, reducing reliance on imports from outside the continent.