Lukoil Neftohim Burgas will process Russian oil for another year, MPs decide

Bulgaria has decided not to revoke the EU's derogation on Russian oil imports for its only refinery, owned by Lukoil, for another year. The parliament's decision is final, as lawmakers voted on second reading an amendment to the law concerning restrictive measures in view of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Thus, Lukoil Neftohim Burgas, the main domestic fuel supplier in Bulgaria, will work with Russian oil until September 30, 2024, when the derogation will be completely revoked. Until then, the refinery will have to gradually change the origin of the oil it works with. From October 2024, the refinery will have to process only oil of non-Russian origin. If Lukoil's Russian subsidiary in the country does not meet the condition of full diversification of crude oil supplies, the government will have to place the refinery and all other assets owned by Lukoil under state control through a special commercial manager.