The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has signed a €75 million loan agreement with the Republic of Serbia for the third phase of its solid waste management program. The financing forms part of a broader €300 million investment package co-financed by the French Development Agency (AFD). The project is designed to build or expand seven regional waste management centers and to introduce a multi-regional sorting system.
The program targets reductions in negative environmental impacts linked to waste production and management. It also aims to strengthen waste collection infrastructure and support biodegradable waste treatment. In parallel, the initiative is intended to increase recycling rates in line with Serbia’s transition to a circular economy and with European Union (EU) environmental standards.
Coverage across municipalities and ongoing works
The new waste management systems will cover 47 municipalities across Serbia. The measures are expected to benefit more than 1.56 million people. Work has already started in several regions under the program.
Agreements signed by Serbian officials, EBRD and AFD
The financing agreements for the third phase were signed by Serbia’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Siniša Mali. The signatories also included Charlotte Rue, EBRD Director for Central and Southeastern Europe, and Rémi Riou, General Director of AFD.
Beyond the loan, EBRD is providing targeted technical assistance funded by donors to the Ministry of Environmental Protection. The support is intended to build capacity and help ensure successful implementation of the program.
Statements on waste systems and EU alignment
Charlotte Rue said EBRD is partnering with Serbian authorities and AFD on modernizing waste management systems and increasing recycling rates. She linked these steps to reducing pollution, promoting circular economy opportunities, and bringing Serbia closer to EU standards. Rue described the approach as combining financing with expertise.
Rémi Riou said the partnership with EBRD and Serbian authorities addresses a critical environmental challenge. He also referenced contributions toward a healthier and more resilient future for Serbia’s population. The project was described as reflecting AFD’s commitment to sustainable waste management aligned with EU environmental standards.
EBRD role in Serbia’s investment portfolio
EBRD is described as a leading institutional investor in Serbia, with over €9 billion invested in 367 projects. The majority of those projects have supported the private sector. The bank’s priorities in Serbia include boosting private sector competitiveness, supporting the green energy transition, and investing in sustainable infrastructure.