Serbia has taken a concrete step to diversify its crude oil supply routes with the launch of a public tender for a new cross-border pipeline connecting Hungary to Novi Sad. The procurement, opened by state-owned pipeline operator Transnafta, covers both construction works and technical supervision for the project.
The proposed pipeline is considered a strategic infrastructure investment, aimed at reducing Serbia’s dependence on a single import corridor. Currently, all crude oil enters the country via Croatia through the JANAF pipeline, a reliance that Serbian authorities view as a long-term supply risk.
Once operational, the new pipeline will enable deliveries from Hungary, a key transit country for the Druzhba pipeline system, which transports Russian Export Blend crude to much of Europe. The infrastructure is specifically designed to handle this grade of oil and expand Serbia’s access to alternative inflow routes.
On Serbian territory, the pipeline will start near the Horgoš border crossing and terminate at Transnafta’s oil terminal in Novi Sad. The underground segment will extend approximately 113 kilometers and is expected to handle up to 5.5 million tons of crude oil annually. The route will pass through municipalities including Kanjiža, Senta, Ada, Bečej, Žabalj and the city of Novi Sad, along with associated facilities required for safe and efficient operation.
While the tender documents do not specify the contract value, earlier estimates put the cost of the Serbian section at up to €157 million. Interested bidders have until 5 February to submit their offers.