Russia is expected to remain India’s biggest crude supplier in July, extending a pattern seen in June as Indian refiners continue to rely heavily on discounted shipments. The latest outlook suggests Russia will account for more than half of India’s oil purchases during the month.
India’s total crude imports are projected to rise above 5 million barrels per day in July, reflecting strong buying by refiners. The increase comes as companies build inventories ahead of possible new US sanctions that could affect energy trade flows.
At the same time, concerns over disruptions in the Gulf are adding pressure to secure supplies early. That combination of geopolitical risk and the need for stable volumes appears to be reinforcing India’s dependence on Russian crude, even as global markets remain uncertain.
The trend highlights how India’s refiners are balancing cost, availability and supply security in a volatile environment. With sanctions threats and regional instability both in focus, Russia’s role in India’s oil import mix looks set to stay dominant for now.
