MOL and Slovnaft File Complaint Against JANAF's Pricing Practices

Complaint Against JANAF

MOL Group and Slovnaft have lodged a formal complaint with the European Commission's Directorate-General for Competition, targeting JANAF's pricing practices. They argue that JANAF has imposed unjustified fee increases since the Russia-Ukraine conflict began in 2022.

Excessive Pricing

Despite a 1.5 times increase in the volume ordered by MOL Group, JANAF doubled its fees and maintained these levels without providing a clear justification. The transit fee in Croatia is over three times higher than that of the TAL pipeline and significantly exceeds fees of other European pipelines with similar conditions.

Monopoly Concerns

JANAF holds a monopoly on crude oil transportation to inland refineries in Hungary and Slovakia. Under EU competition law, imposing unfair prices is considered an abuse of a dominant position. MOL and Slovnaft claim JANAF's fees are excessive and exploit the geopolitical situation, harming consumers and energy security in Central and Eastern Europe.

Legal and Contractual Issues

In addition to pricing concerns, MOL Group highlights JANAF's reluctance to clarify its stance on Russian crude oil shipments that comply with EU and US sanctions. The ongoing contractual process with JANAF is delayed, leaving MOL without a valid transport contract for 2026, further complicating supply challenges.