Facing an approaching deadline, Serbian oil company NIS has formally requested a new operating permit from the US Department of the Treasury, as its current authorization nears expiration. The move is aimed at ensuring continuity of operations amid ongoing regulatory constraints.
The existing license, issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) in March, is valid only until 17 April. In order to avoid potential disruptions, NIS has initiated the renewal process in advance, seeking to maintain uninterrupted business activities.
At the same time, US authorities have extended the deadline for negotiations involving GazpromNeft and MOL Group, allowing talks to continue until 22 May. These discussions are centered on a potential restructuring of ownership, with a particular focus on addressing the dominant Russian stake in NIS.
Sanctions against the Serbian company were originally imposed on 9 October 2025, reflecting concerns over its ownership structure and Russian control. The outcome of the current licensing process and ongoing negotiations will be crucial in determining the company’s operational stability and future positioning.
