Italy imposes offshore exploration moratorium
The industry’s future hangs in the balance as the government considers a new energy transition strategy
Hopes of a revival for Italy's upstream sector have been dealt a severe blow by parliamentary approval in February of an 18-month moratorium on offshore oil and gas exploration permits, as well as a sharp increase in fees payable on upstream concessions. The government says it wants to prioritise renewable energy developments instead. The measures were introduced as an amendment to the government's so-called "simplification decree" and are intended to assist Italy's energy system in its "process of transition towards decarbonisation", says economic development ministry undersecretary Davide Crippa. Crippa is a member of the populist Five-Star Movement, which is part of a ruling coalition wit
Also in this section
29 April 2026
The UAE’s exit from the alliance marks a decisive step towards a world in which oil markets are shaped less by collective management and more by national strategy
29 April 2026
Trafigura’s $1b prepayment agreement confirms African resource holders’ renewed interest in oil-backed financing deals as they look to capitalise on high oil prices
29 April 2026
The UAE’s departure from the oil producers’ group was a surprise to many, but the move can be traced back to a single point five years ago
28 April 2026
Oil traders warning of $200/bl oil are wrong, and the market should be wary of proclamations that the impact of the oil shortage has only begun to be felt and a that a ‘harsh adjustment’ is coming—even for industrialised nations
