The European Commission has selected 13 strategic projects in third countries to ensure access to raw materials and support local value development, among which is the “Jadar” project by Rio Tinto in Serbia.
The Commission adopted the first list of 13 strategic projects related to strategic raw materials located outside the European Union, including overseas areas and territories. Among them is Rio Tinto’s “Jadar” project, which intends to open a boron and lithium mine in western Serbia.
The European Commission stated that these strategic projects aim to diversify EU supply sources and increase economic security. At the same time, the projects are designed to encourage the creation of local value in third countries.
“This initiative complements the list of 47 strategic projects within the EU, adopted on March 25, 2025. All 60 strategic projects combined will contribute to the competitiveness of European industry, especially in sectors such as electromobility, renewable energy sources, defense, and aerospace,” the European Commission stated.
These projects, it is noted, represent the first results of the implementation of the Critical Raw Materials Act, which came into force in May 2024.
Rio Tinto welcomes the decision
“Rio Tinto welcomes the European Commission’s decision to declare the Jadar project a strategic project based on the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA). This decision confirms that the Jadar project can be developed in accordance with EU standards,” Rio Tinto announced.
As stated, the European Commission’s decision highlights the great importance of the “Jadar” project for both Serbia and the EU, and for the secure supply of critical raw materials necessary for the green transition.
The “Jadar” project is one of the most promising and best-researched lithium projects in Europe, Rio Tinto emphasized.
“The EU’s decision to declare Jadar a project of strategic importance confirms that Serbia has an important role in Europe’s energy and digital future. We are committed to developing the project in accordance with Serbian laws and European standards, with a transparent approach and continuous dialogue with all stakeholders,” stated Chad Blewitt, Director of the “Jadar” project.
The project’s inclusion among strategic projects outside EU territory confirms its strategic importance, technical feasibility, and compliance with environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) standards, the statement said.
Lithium from Serbia has the potential to become an important component of the European battery value chain, allowing Serbia to integrate into this strategic sector.
The project opens up opportunities for strong economic growth through the development of a local value chain and the attraction of new investments in high-tech sectors.
Before the construction of the mine and processing plant begins, a series of legally prescribed procedures must be carried out. These include continued project development in terms of permits, updating environmental impact assessment studies, public review, and finally obtaining all necessary permits and approvals.
Rio Tinto emphasizes that it remains committed to dialogue with all stakeholders and to implementing the project in full compliance with environmental protection standards and regulatory requirements of Serbia and the EU, the statement concluded.
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Source: N1, Telegraf, Photo: Printscreen YouTube / N1