The AIM-listed explorer held interim revenue flat at £1.5m and narrowed its pre-tax loss, but pushed back drilling of its flagship Equatorial Guinea prospect to the first half of 2027.

Europa's associate Antler pushed back the completion date for its Fuhai farm-out deal after Chinese regulatory delays held up outbound investment approval.

Regulatory approval took longer than expected.

Antler, 42.9% owned by Europa Oil & Gas, has secured Ministry for Mining and Hydrocarbons Department approval for a farm-out to Fuhai that will leave Antler with a 40% working interest and operator role in the EG-08 PSC.

"We remain debt‑free, our UK production continues to generate cash, and we now have a funded pathway to drilling a well that could genuinely change the scale of the business," William Holland, CEO, said.

North Yorkshire Council's local planning authority has rejected permission for Europa Oil & Gas's Cloughton gas appraisal well despite planning officers and 13 independent expert reports recommending approval.

Europa Oil & Gas said North Yorkshire Council's planning committee on 24 April was minded not to approve its plan for a Burniston well on the Cloughton prospect despite a positive recommendation from the council's planning officers.