President of Serbia Aleksandar Vučić attended the ceremonial commencement of serial production at the new Linglong tire factory in Zrenjanin. This significant investment, valued at over one billion dollars, is a major greenfield project covering 130 hectares. The event was also graced by Linglong Tire’s General Director Feng Wang and Chinese Ambassador to Serbia Li Ming.
During the visit, President Vučić expressed his awe at the facility, calling it “amazing” and highlighting it as the largest greenfield investment ever in Serbia. He praised the factory’s expansive infrastructure, which includes a sports center for workers with tennis courts and canteens. Vučić also expressed gratitude towards Chinese President Xi Jinping, attributing the success of this project to their strong friendship and Xi’s commitment to supporting Serbia.
Vučić reflected on the challenges faced during the initial negotiations, acknowledging the difficulties in reaching an agreement with Linglong’s leadership. Despite these hurdles, he is proud of the investment, which he described as transformative for Zrenjanin and the surrounding Banat region. He noted that this project will significantly boost the local economy, with Zrenjanin’s budget expected to rise as infrastructure developments like a new railway and highway are completed.
The event also saw the symbolic initiation of tire production, with Vučić, Ministers Irena Vujović and Adrijana Mesarović, and Linglong representatives pressing buttons to mark the start. Additionally, memoranda of understanding were signed to enhance cooperation between Linglong, the City of Zrenjanin, and universities in Novi Sad and Beijing.
Chinese Ambassador Li Ming highlighted the factory as a symbol of the deepening relationship between Serbia and China. He noted that this is the first Chinese tire factory in Europe and emphasized that the factory is a significant Chinese greenfield investment project. Li Ming also anticipated further Chinese investments in Serbia, bringing advanced technology and eco-friendly production practices.
The Linglong project, which includes an additional investment of $450 million, is expected to create 800 more jobs, adding to the 1,212 positions already established. Li Ming commended both Linglong and the Serbian government for their continued cooperation, which he believes will further benefit both nations.
