A Tiny Mediterranean Island Feels the Heat of the Minerals War with China Sotiris Theodorou, a bar owner on the Greek island of Chios, has become an unlikely figurehead in a dispute over a plan to mine antimony. This plan is linked to Europe’s need to secure raw materials following China’s restrictions on critical mineral exports. The mining proposal, currently paused, would be located in northern Chios, near the legendary birthplace of Homer.

• A controversial plan to mine for antimony on the Greek island of Chios is facing opposition.
• The mining plan is connected to Europe’s effort to reduce its reliance on China for raw materials.
• China’s recent clamp-down on critical minerals exports has intensified the search for alternative sources.
• The proposed mine is in northern Chios, near Volissos, traditionally associated with Homer.
• The location is difficult to access, requiring boat or a challenging mountain road.