The raw materials situation in neighbouring European countries

The global demand for critical raw materials and rare earths is continually increasing. Indispensable for achieving the goals of the energy transition, digitalization, and the strategic autonomy of the European Union (EU), these materials are of great economic importance. Resource-rich third countries neighboring the EU are increasingly becoming the focus of strategic European economic policy. At the same time, the raw materials situation in countries of this region – geographically located in Europe but not members of the EU – is less well-known. 

This publication reflects the raw materials situation in four neighboring European countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Georgia, and Armenia. The authors focus on raw material deposits, the demand for raw materials, and the mining conditions in the local contexts, taking into account international standards and agreements.