Improving Serbia's copper exports: Key challenges and solutions

Stanojević, Nataša (2024) Improving Serbia's copper exports: Key challenges and solutions. Industrija, 52 (3-4). pp. 21-35. ISSN 0350-0373

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Abstract

In recent years, Serbia's copper industry has faced significant challenges related to its export structure. This analysis reveals two key issues: a shortage of skilled labour and inadequate processing capacity, both exacerbated by intensified exploitation under new ownership. Given the limited time frame before the copper mines are fully depleted, these challenges cannot be completely resolved. Thus, this research seeks to identify practical solutions to enhance the copper export structure within these constraints. By employing the Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) index and analysing export shares, the study identifies three copper product groups with the highest potential for export growth: 1) refined copper, 2) copper plates and sheets and 3) copper pipes. Redirecting limited processing capacities and human resources toward the production of these products would create a more favourable balance between raw ore and processed copper exports. This strategic focus is expected to yield higher profits while optimizing the use of capacities in related industries, given the significantly higher value-added nature of these products compared to raw ore.

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