New Delhi, December 22, 2025
Yogesh Sharma-
November numbers reveal India’s oil priorities.
India’s crude oil imports from Russia reached a five-month high in November, cementing Moscow’s status as New Delhi’s main energy supplier amid rising geopolitical tensions and new Western sanctions.
According to ship-tracking data from global energy analytics firm Kpler, India received over 1.8 million barrels per day (bpd) of Russian oil in November, up roughly 4% from October levels. This increase occurred even as numerous Indian refiners began to prepare for stricter compliance following new US sanctions targeting sectors of Russia’s oil sector.
Russia Remains India’s Top Oil Supplier
Discounted barrels keep Russia at the top of India’s oil basket.
India’s crude oil imports from Russia reached a five-month high in November, cementing Moscow’s status as New Delhi’s main energy supplier amid rising geopolitical tensions and new Western sanctions.
According to ship-tracking data from global energy analytics firm Kpler, India received over 1.8 million barrels per day (bpd) of Russian oil in November, up roughly 4% from October levels. This increase occurred even as numerous Indian refiners began to prepare for stricter compliance following new US sanctions targeting sectors of Russia’s oil sector.
The fundamental driver of the increase was the price advantage provided by Russian crude. Since Western sanctions changed global oil trade flows, Russian barrels have continuously sold at a discount, appealing to cost-sensitive customers such as India. Lower input costs helped refiners maintain profitability even as fuel demand remained stable.
In November, Indian refiners raised their spot purchases and scheduled deliveries, resulting in higher month-over-month arrivals. According to industry sources, refiners favor Russian grades since they are compatible with existing refinery designs.
Refinery Operations and Exports
Both state and commercial refineries processed larger amounts of Russian oil, transforming it into diesel, gasoline, and aviation fuels. A portion of these refined goods were exported, boosting refinery utilization and cementing India’s position as an important refining hub in Asia.
Private refiners, in particular, continued to benefit from sourcing flexibility, but state-run refineries balanced Russian crude with Middle Eastern imports to diversify risk.
Strategic and Economic Considerations
India has often asserted that its crude oil procurement decisions are driven by economic interests and energy security, rather than political factors. With the country importing more than 80% of its oil, maintaining diverse supply pathways is a strategic imperative.
Officials have also indicated that India continues to comply with international regulations while ensuring stable fuel supplies for domestic consumption.
What’s Ahead
While November saw a significant increase, analysts warn that future Russian crude imports may fluctuate due to shipping difficulties, sanctions enforcement, and global price changes. However, as long as Russian oil is reasonably priced, it is projected to remain a substantial component of India’s import basket.
The November numbers support a clear trend: India is altering its oil procurement strategy to favor cost, dependability, and flexibility in an increasingly unpredictable global energy marketplace.
India buys smart in a volatile oil market.
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