Norwegians Controversially Sign Deal To Explore Oil In Croatia’s Adriatic Sea

Just weeks after the ratification of the Hydrocarbons Exploitation Act in Croatia, the Ministry of Economy has signed a deal with Norway’s seismic imaging services provider Spectrum Geo to conduct seismic surveys of oil and gas reserves in Croatia’s Adriatic sea.

The deal however has caused some controversy, with claims that the Norwegians were directly contracted without a public tender for the seismic survey being issued. American-based company ION, who also expressed in oil and gas exploration in the Adriatic, plans to challenge the decision with the European Commission, claiming misconduct on the Croatian government’s behalf.

“As far as I am aware, INA (Croatia’s national oil company) is the only company with a valid licence to explore and exploit oil and gas in Croatia’s territory and the belt in the Adriatic sea. INA are remaining quiet on the issue which is significant,” said politician Dragutin Lesar.