The European Commission’s recently published list of 47 strategically important projects within the EU presents a unique growth opportunity for Serbia. Despite facing numerous internal and external challenges, Serbia’s economic development in recent years has remained strong and steady. The country has consistently achieved its goals and often exceeded expectations, even from difficult circumstances. One key opportunity for Serbia has been the Jadar lithium mining project, though its full potential has been delayed for various reasons.
Although the current list of projects is limited to EU member states, Serbia can aim to secure a place in future rounds, which are expected to include projects outside the EU’s borders. These projects all focus on critical minerals, with lithium being one of the most significant. Serbia, with its deep expertise in lithium research and exploration, is well-positioned to be included in this select group, particularly given the progress made with the Jadar project.
Being included in this list offers Serbia several potential benefits. The EU has already allocated an initial investment budget of €22.5 billion specifically for the selected projects. Among these projects, many focus on lithium, a mineral that has become central to Europe’s shift towards a green automotive industry. While Europe has long been a leader in the automotive sector, the increasing demand for lithium, driven by the need for electric vehicle batteries, is now a critical factor in the region’s future economic success.
The EU’s support for these projects is not limited to financial backing. The legal process for obtaining permits for these critical projects is streamlined, and although critics worry that this might lead to weaker regulations, the situation is quite the opposite. Projects on this strategic list will follow a clear legal path, with the EU providing continuous institutional support as long as projects comply with established guidelines. Projects that do not meet the criteria will lose this support.
Stefan Sežurne, European Commissioner for Development and Industrial Strategy, emphasized the importance of securing raw materials for Europe’s future. He stated that raw materials are essential for the continent’s decarbonization and that Europe is currently too dependent on third countries for key raw materials. To address this, Europe must increase its own production, diversify external supplies, and create local reserves.
Industry representatives also welcomed the EU’s approach. Emanuel Proensa, general manager of Savana, a company working on lithium extraction through the Barroso project in Portugal, described the classification of strategic projects as a significant step toward securing a more resilient supply of materials critical to Europe’s green transition. Keith Coughlan, from European Metals, expressed similar sentiments about the importance of the Cinovec project in the Czech Republic, calling it a turning point for the region.
Serbia’s rich lithium deposits present an opportunity not only to boost its own economy but also to strengthen its geopolitical position. Countries like the Czech Republic and Portugal, although similar in size to Serbia, have advanced significantly by securing EU support for their lithium projects. Serbia now faces the challenge of positioning itself to take full advantage of this opportunity. If the Jadar project is selected for inclusion in the next wave of EU-supported projects, Serbia will need to be ready to leverage this outcome to improve its standing and further integrate into the European and global markets.
