US Extends Licence for Croatian Pipeline Operator JANAF to Transport Oil to Serbia

Croatian oil pipeline operator JANAF has secured a crucial extension of its operating licence from the U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). This renewed authorization permits JANAF to continue essential activities for transporting crude oil to Serbia's Petroleum Industry of Serbia (NIS) under their existing contract until September 30.

The extension, facilitated through cooperation with the Croatian government and legal assistance in the U.S., ensures that JANAF can maintain its business relationship with NIS and fulfill its contractual duties. The company emphasized that this decision allows for the "continuation of business cooperation and the fulfilment of contractual obligations in accordance with the sanctions regime and the applicable regulatory framework."

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The licence obtained enables the continuation of business cooperation and the fulfilment of contractual obligations in accordance with the sanctions regime and the applicable regulatory framework.

JANAF highlighted its commitment to the security and stability of the energy system in the region, reinforcing its position as a reliable operator of strategic energy infrastructure. This development is particularly significant as it allows for uninterrupted energy supply to Serbia while adhering to international sanctions. Similar extensions have previously been granted to NIS and Hungarian energy company MOL, which is in negotiations with Russia's Gazprom Neft regarding the acquisition of NIS.

The licence enables JANAF to continue its role in transporting crude oil for NIS throughout the extended period, ensuring operational continuity and compliance with the complex international sanctions regime. The company's focus remains on maintaining a stable energy flow in Southeastern Europe.

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JANAF remains committed to security of supply and the stability of the energy system in this part of Europe, confirming its role as a reliable partner and operator of strategic energy infrastructure.