Hungary has received temporary approval from the European Commission to postpone full implementation of EU gas-capacity rules at its border with Serbia until the 2027/2028 gas year. The derogation relates to requirements that cross-border pipeline capacity be offered as a single bundled product on both sides of an interconnection. The measure applies to the Hungary–Serbia interconnection capacity framework.
Serbia is outside the EU and has not yet completed the regulatory and technical arrangements needed to implement the bundled-product system. This status affects the timing for applying the relevant capacity rules at the border. As a result, the Commission’s temporary approval extends the period before full alignment is required.
Bundled product requirement and Serbia’s readiness
The specific EU rules in question require cross-border pipeline capacity to be sold as one bundled product across an interconnection. The derogation allows Hungary to delay full application of these provisions at its border with Serbia. Serbia’s ongoing regulatory and technical work remains a key factor for implementation.
The Hungarian regulator MEKH requested the exemption in February. The European Commission determined that the temporary arrangement would not materially disrupt the EU gas market or threaten security of supply. The decision therefore permits continued operation under an interim framework while procedures are adjusted.
Impact on regional flows via TurkStream corridor
The exemption is commercially significant because the Serbian corridor has become a major supply route for Hungary. Much of Hungary’s TurkStream gas enters through Serbia at Kiskundorozsma. Annual import capacity at that entry point is around 8.5 billion cubic metres.
The Commission’s decision provides additional time for operators and regulators to align capacity procedures between Serbia and Hungary. It also aims to preserve gas flows along a regional corridor that has grown in importance for Hungarian supply routes.
