EU-Serbia Raw Materials Pact Triggers Backlash Over Lithium Governance

Highlights

• EU and Serbia formalize strategic raw materials partnership under the Critical Raw Materials Act.
• Aim to secure lithium access and reduce dependence on Chinese mineral supplies.
• Serbia's disputed Jadar lithium project, led by Rio Tinto, could supply 10-15% of Europe's lithium demand.
• Jadar project faces strong environmental opposition and protests.
• Agreement intensifies domestic debate in Serbia over:
  • Balancing resource development
  • Environmental protection
  • Democratic governance amid geopolitical competition

The European Union and Serbia have signed a new strategic raw materials partnership aimed at securing EU access to critical minerals and strengthening supply-chain resilience under the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA). The agreement targets cooperation in battery-materials development, high ESG standards, research, and workforce training—positioning Serbia as a key node in Europe’s bid to reduce reliance on Chinese minerals.

At the center of the deal is Serbia’s long-disputed Jadar lithium project, led by Rio Tinto’s subsidiary Rio Sava Exploration. Expected to supply up to 10–15% of Europe’s lithium demand, the project has become a flashpoint in Serbia’s domestic politics. Environmental groups and local communities have opposed it for years, citing risks of pollution, land expropriation, and opaque permitting processes. Mass protests previously pressured authorities to revoke permits, though recent political shifts have revived the project’s prospects.

The new EU-Serbia Memorandum of Understanding has intensified debate inside Serbia: critics argue the agreement disregards public opposition, while supporters claim it represents a strategic opportunity for both Serbia and the EU, especially amid increasing geopolitical competition for battery metals.

As the EU pushes to secure future-proof mineral supply chains, Serbia’s lithium sector remains a test case for balancing resource development, environmental protection, and democratic governance—with implications that extend well beyond the Balkans.

© 2025 Rare Earth Exchanges™ – Accelerating Transparency, Accuracy, and Insight Across the Rare Earth & Critical Minerals Supply Chain.