Chinese mining firm Zijin Mining is interested in taking part in the privatisation of Serbian copper smelting and mining complex Rudarsko Topionicarski Basen Bor (RTB Bor) that government plans to announce in the second half of the year, reads the statement issued by the cabinet of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on March 12 after his meeting with representatives of the Chinese company. RTB Bor is one of the largest burdens on Serbia's budget since the government's efforts to find a solution to make the company sustainable are taking longer than planned. One of the potential solutions — the one favoured by the government — is the sale of RTB Bor to a Chinese investor. RTB Bor is the main employer in eastern Serbia and its closure could sharply increase poverty in the region.