Chemical Industry News, Data & Insights

MOL Requests Release of Strategic Oil Reserves to Ensure Supply

Key highlights
  • No oil has been delivered via the Druzhba pipeline since 27 January 2026.
  • Seaborne crude oil shipments to arrive at Omišalj, Croatia, in early March.
  • Hungary may release 250,000 tons of strategic reserves if needed.
  • EU regulations ensure 90 days of crude oil reserves in Hungary and Slovakia.

Supply Disruption

The MOL Group has requested the Hungarian Ministry of Energy to release strategic oil reserves due to halted deliveries through the Druzhba pipeline since 27 January 2026. This measure aims to maintain regional supply security.

Alternative Supply Route

To compensate for the shortfall, MOL is using seaborne crude oil, with the first shipments expected at the port of Omišalj, Croatia, in early March. The transit to MOL's refineries will take an additional 5-12 days.

Strategic Reserves

If eastern shipments do not resume soon, Hungary may need to release approximately 250,000 tons of strategic crude oil reserves. MOL is coordinating with the Hungarian Ministry of Energy and maintaining contact with the Slovak government to ensure a swift response.

Current Market Conditions

Despite the disruption, fuel supplies remain stable, and the market is being served without interruption. MOL continues to operate normally while monitoring the situation closely.