The European Commission has included Rio Tinto’s Jadar lithium project in Serbia on a list of strategic raw materials initiatives in third countries, underscoring the EU’s push to diversify supply chains and enhance energy security.
The list, presented by European Commission Vice President Stéphane Séjourné, features 13 projects outside the EU, including developments in Canada, Norway, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Zambia, Brazil, South Africa, Malawi, the UK, Madagascar, Greenland and New Caledonia. These cover key materials such as lithium, nickel and graphite.
“These strategic projects will diversify the EU’s supply sources and enhance economic security, while also fostering local value creation in third countries,” the Commission said in a statement.
The initiative complements a previously announced list of 47 EU-based projects aimed at bolstering sectors critical to the bloc’s green and digital transitions, including electric mobility, renewable energy, defence and aerospace.
Projects were evaluated by independent experts for alignment with EU environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards and technical feasibility under the Critical Raw Materials Act.
The Commission emphasized that the selected projects must offer mutual benefits to the EU and host countries and will receive coordinated support from EU institutions, member states and financial bodies, including help securing financing and engaging with buyers.
Total capital investment required for the 13 third-country projects is estimated at €5.5 billion.
Rio Tinto welcomed the Commission’s decision, saying it confirms the potential for Jadar to be developed in line with EU standards and underscores Serbia’s role in securing critical raw materials for Europe’s energy and digital future.
With projected annual output of 58,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate, the company said Serbia could become a key player in the electric vehicle supply chain.
“This designation confirms that Serbia plays an important role in Europe’s energy and digital future,” said Jadar Project Director Chad Blewitt. “We remain committed to developing the project in full compliance with Serbian law and EU standards, through transparent engagement with all stakeholders.”
Rio Tinto said Jadar’s inclusion reflects its strategic significance, technical feasibility and ESG alignment. The lithium extracted from Serbia could become a vital component of the EU’s battery value chain, enabling Serbia’s integration into this key sector.
The company said the project could boost economic growth by developing local value chains and attracting investment in high-tech industries.
Before construction of the mine and processing facilities can begin, Rio Tinto must complete all legal requirements, including updated environmental impact assessments, public consultations, and securing final permits.
“We remain committed to a transparent and inclusive dialogue with all stakeholders, and to implementing the project in full compliance with environmental and regulatory standards in both Serbia and the EU,” the company said.