Hungary is expanding its upstream energy portfolio by opening a new call for hydrocarbon concessions across several previously unlicensed areas. Companies are invited to apply for rights to explore, develop and produce oil and natural gas in the Baracska, Bacsalmas, Bekescsaba, Kiskore, Nagylengyel-West, Tiszacsege and Tiszalok zones.
According to the Ministry of Energy, the concessions will be granted for a standard 20-year term. Operators that comply with contractual and regulatory obligations may extend their licenses by up to ten additional years without the need for a new tender.
The move follows the Government’s decision to resume concession awards last year after a five-year break. Contracts signed in 2024 triggered exploration work at six sites, including Buzsak, Csongrad, Hatvan, Kiskoros, Kiskunhalas and Tamasi. Prior to 2019, seven concession rounds delivered hydrocarbon and geothermal agreements covering more than 30 locations nationwide, generating notable revenue for the state through concession fees and mining royalties.
The renewed licensing drive comes amid a strong performance in domestic production. Hungary’s crude oil output reached around 1.17 million tons in 2025, the highest level this century. Natural gas production also strengthened, approaching 2 billion cubic meters, a level not recorded since 2013.
