Global POV Weekly: $2.55B Lithium Projects Faces Uncertainty

Meet NetworkPulse, your go-to research powerhouse. It delivers timely, discreet, and detailed intelligence on the subjects that truly matter to you, all within the same day.

Unlock the insights you need to make informed decisions and stay ahead of the curve.

Rio Tinto’s planned $2.55 billion lithium mine in Serbia, set to become Europe’s largest, is encountering fierce resistance from an unlikely alliance of environmentalists and nationalist groups.

Recently, tens of thousands of protesters have taken to the streets of Belgrade to voice their opposition.

The controversy underscores the importance for investors to undertake comprehensive due diligence and risk assessments, especially in ventures with substantial environmental and geopolitical implications.

Despite the opposition, major global powers — including the EU, U.S., China, and Russia — support the project, suggesting it is likely to commence by 2028.

Serbia’s unclear stance on these issues could not only harm its environment but also tarnish the reputation of international business entities operating within its borders.

Our Featured NetworkPulse™ Question:

Could this be an isolated incident or the start of a growing trend?

Within hours, we received 5 quality answers from our community of experts in Europe. See what insights they shared:

Key Takeaways:

• The controversy surrounding Rio Tintos lithium project in Serbia highlights the need for investors to conduct thorough due diligence and risk assessments, particularly in sectors with significant environmental impacts or geopolitical implications.
• Despite public opposition, major foreign powers including the EU, US, China, and Russia back Rio Tintos lithium project in Serbia, indicating that the project will likely begin by 2028.
• The CRMR critical raw material regulation boosts EU companies' and governments' active involvement in securing the supply chain of minerals like Lithium, making Russia ties a competing driver.
• Rio Tintos Jadar Project in Serbia is one of the most significant lithium mining projects globally but has faced significant opposition from local communities and environmental groups.
• Serbia's ambiguous stance on environmental and social risks could damage not only its environment but also the reputation of parties involved in business ventures within the country.

Click to download our complimentary NetworkPulse™ brief.

Want to run your own report? Get started with Enquire PRO today: https://www.enquire.ai/pro/