Serbia’s Pančevo refinery has resumed crude oil deliveries, marking a significant development in the region’s energy supply chain. This restoration follows nearly three months of halted operations due to the enforcement of US sanctions, which took effect on October 9. The resumption is facilitated by a temporary license granted to the JANAF pipeline system, allowing crucial transport links to be reestablished.
Energy and Mining Minister Dubravka Đedović announced that approximately 85,000 tons of crude oil are set to arrive via the JANAF pipeline this week. This influx is expected to enable the refinery to restart operations by mid-January, with fuel production—including diesel—anticipated to follow shortly thereafter. Initial fuel deliveries are projected to reach the domestic market by late January, providing a much-needed boost to local supply.
In addition to the incoming shipments, the refinery will also utilize around 120,000 tons of crude sourced domestically. This combination of imports and local resources is expected to sustain refinery operations well beyond January 23. The Minister emphasized that these developments come after a notably challenging period during which Serbia successfully navigated significant logistical and regulatory hurdles to maintain fuel supply.
Simultaneously, the Serbian government is considering increasing its stake in NIS, the national oil company. This move reflects an effort to enhance national control over strategic energy assets amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions and sanctions-related challenges. Such actions underscore Serbia’s commitment to securing its energy independence and stability in a fluctuating market environment.
