In a significant turn of events, the Serbian government announced on Tuesday that operations at the controversial lithium mining project near Loznica can resume. This decision comes after the country’s top court overturned a 2022 cancellation of the mining permits. The vast mineral deposits, set to be mined by Rio Tinto, have been a contentious political issue, with billions of euros at stake. Rio Tinto claims the mine will create thousands of jobs and secure Serbia’s position in emerging energy markets.
“The government… takes measures to restore the legal order to the state that existed before the adoption of the regulation that was declared unconstitutional,” a government statement declared. This follows a constitutional court ruling deeming the 2022 revocation of Rio Tinto’s permits unconstitutional.
The project has sparked widespread protests in Serbia, reflecting public distrust in the government amid environmental and health concerns. However, President Aleksandar Vucic suggested that mining operations could commence by 2028, contingent on new guarantees from Rio Tinto. Vucic emphasized the need for assurances that the environment and public health would not be compromised.
Rio Tinto has expressed approval of the decision, with project director Chad Blewitt stating, “The Jadar Project will be subject to stringent environmental requirements in compliance with Serbia and EU regulations.” He highlighted that the project would generate thousands of high-paid, high-skilled jobs.
The Jadar mine could produce 58,000 tonnes of lithium annually, supporting the production of 1.1 million electric vehicles. Despite this, protest leaders like Savo Manojlovic have criticized the government’s decision, predicting social unrest. Activist Zlatko Kokanovic echoed these sentiments, accusing the government of political maneuvering.
