Serbia’s NIS has received a further US licence extension that allows operations to continue through 30 October. The extension covers the country’s only oil refinery, providing additional operating certainty while ownership negotiations continue. The licence extension supports production at Pančevo.
Under the authorisation, the refinery can produce diesel, petrol, kerosene and fuel oil. The continuation of processing is linked to ongoing efforts to manage supply continuity as other options face constraints.
Acquisition talks and state position in any transaction
Talks involving MOL over a possible acquisition remain under way. Serbian authorities have prepared a shareholders’ agreement intended to regulate the state’s position if a transaction proceeds. The agreement would apply if the deal receives the necessary approvals.
Refinery operations are described as particularly important amid elevated fuel prices and logistics pressures. Low Danube water levels and higher logistics costs complicate alternative supplies.
Diesel releases and excise-duty measures to support retail pricing
The Serbian government has released 5,000 tonnes of diesel from reserves. It has also used excise-duty reductions to contain retail price increases. These steps are intended to support near-term market stability.
The licence provides near-term supply relief, but it leaves longer-term issues unresolved. Ownership arrangements and sanctions-related solutions remain without resolution beyond the extension period.
