Serbia prepares final proposal on NIS takeover by Hungary’s MOL

Friday 15 - 10:45

Serbia is preparing to submit its final proposal regarding the possible takeover of the oil company NIS by the Hungarian energy group MOL Group, according to statements from Serbian energy officials.

The negotiations concern NIS, the operator of Serbia’s only oil refinery and one of the country’s most strategic energy companies. The discussions come after Russian energy giants Gazprom and Gazprom Neft agreed earlier this year to sell their majority stake in the Serbian company.

The proposed sale follows international pressure linked to sanctions imposed on Russian businesses after the war in Ukraine. Authorities in the United States reportedly requested the withdrawal of Russian ownership from the Serbian energy group as part of broader geopolitical measures targeting Moscow’s economic influence.

Under the current structure, the Serbian government owns nearly 30 percent of NIS and must approve any final agreement involving a transfer of ownership. Officials in Belgrade are also seeking to increase the state’s participation in the company as negotiations continue.

Serbian Energy Minister Dubravka Djedovic Handanovic stated that recent meetings with MOL representatives were productive and that several important issues had already been resolved. However, discussions are still continuing over the future management and operation of the refinery.

Energy analysts believe the outcome of the negotiations could significantly affect the Balkan energy market, particularly because NIS plays a central role in Serbia’s fuel supply and industrial infrastructure.

Experts also note that the deal reflects broader changes taking place in Europe’s energy sector as countries and companies adjust to geopolitical tensions, sanctions, and efforts to reduce dependence on Russian-controlled assets.

The final decision is expected to attract close attention from regional governments, investors, and international energy markets in the coming weeks.