MOL Group has announced the discovery of a new oil field near Somogysámson in the Transdanubian region of Western Hungary.

The discovery was made during exploration drilling conducted in December 2024, with oil found at a depth of 1,250 metres.

The well, named Som-8, has been confirmed to produce 1,200 barrels of oil per day following extensive testing completed in March 2025.

This marks MOL’s first oil discovery in the Transdanubian region in over a decade, underscoring the continued potential for hydrocarbon exploration in Hungary.

The well is located within the Bázakerettye concession area, an oil-producing region with nearly a century of history.

Production from Som-8 will contribute approximately 1 per cent of MOL Group‘s total hydrocarbon output and is transported by truck to the Danube Refinery in Százhalombatta.

Zsombor Marton, Executive Vice President for Exploration and Production at MOL Group, expressed pride in the achievement, stating: “After the exploration successes of recent years, we have once again discovered a new oil field.

“This success demonstrates that there is still untapped potential in Hungary’s hydrocarbon reserves.”

He also highlighted that recent discoveries across Hungary have helped the country reach a five-year peak in domestic production.

Dr György Bacsa, COO of MOL Hungary, highlighted the importance of reducing Hungary’s reliance on imported oil: “As a landlocked country, our oil supply depends heavily on pipelines and intermediaries.

“We must continue investing to maintain and increase domestic production.”

MOL plans to invest HUF 150 billion (AU$ 640 million) over the next five years to enhance its oil and natural gas production capabilities.

MOL remains Hungary’s largest hydrocarbon producer, operating nearly 1,300 wells and providing 47 per cent of the country’s crude oil and nearly 90 per cent of its natural gas production in 2024.

Globally, MOL produced an average of 93,800 barrels of oil equivalent per day last year and aims to maintain this level through strategic partnerships and investments.

Recent agreements with national oil companies from Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Türkiye further demonstrate MOL’s commitment to strengthening its international portfolio.

The discovery at Somogysámson reinforces MOL’s role as a key player in ensuring Hungary’s energy security.