Around 400 workers at the Leoni factory in Malošište near Doljevac have lost their jobs following the company’s announcement to close the plant, with a total of 1,500 employees expected to be affected by the end of 2025. The factory, which produces cable harnesses and optical fibers for the automotive industry, was previously praised by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić as a “revival for Serbia and its citizens.”
Workers report missing pension contributions for the current year, incomplete work records totaling eight months, and issues with severance payments. Many employees had been informed in advance about the layoffs, but disputes over compensation have arisen.
The closure is part of the company’s plan to reduce losses, first by downsizing and eventually stopping production entirely at the Malošište plant. Workers express frustration that promises of economic growth are contradicted by ongoing factory closures and layoffs, including other major companies in Serbia.
