Serbia’s NIS has received a further US licence extension that allows operations to continue through 30 October. The extension provides additional operating certainty for the country’s only oil refinery while ownership negotiations remain under way. It also supports production of diesel, petrol, kerosene and fuel oil at Pančevo.
Refinery output and supply conditions in Serbia
Continued refinery operations are described as important amid elevated fuel prices. Low Danube water levels and higher logistics costs are also cited as factors that complicate alternative supplies. The licence is therefore linked to near-term supply relief for the Serbian market.
MOL acquisition talks and state shareholders’ agreement
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.
Diesel releases and excise-duty measures
The Serbian government has released 5,000 tonnes of diesel from reserves. It has also used excise-duty reductions to contain retail price increases. While these steps are aimed at limiting price pressure, the longer-term ownership and sanctions solution remains unresolved.
