А
decision has been issued by the State Customs Agency terminating the
license of Nefothim Burgas to operate the so-called excise storage
facilities.
The decision pertains also to the oil
terminal "Rosenets," both property of the Lukoil Bulgaria company.
The news was reported by the TV channel
bTV Wednesday morning.
In a phone call to the TV station, the
Director of the Customs Agency, Vanyo Tanov confirmed the news,
explaining the move means "Lukoil" is stopping operations in Bulgaria,
because it can no longer produce fuels. The order stems from the fact
the company failed to install devices that send data for the sales to
the National Revenue Agency, NRA.
"When the company complies with all that
is required by the law, it can apply again for a new license," Tanov
said, adding he did not yet know if the case will be referred to the
Prosecutor's Office.
Top Bulgarian financial expert, Emil
Harsev, commented for bTV that a price increase of fuels in the country
is to be expected since the only oil refinery in Bulgaria is effectively
closed. He says the decisions means the refinery can no longer receive
oil thus it must stop production.
The move comes in the heels of a number
of reports that Prime Minister, Boyko Borisov, is a close friend of the
Lukoil Bulgarian CEO Valentin Zlatev and the company receives
preferential treatment.
The decision has been handed to Lukoil
on Tuesday, July 26 and is effective Wednesday.
Expect further details. (Source: Sofia
News Agency)