India Diversifies Crude Imports Away From Middle East Dependence

April 12, 2026 — India Diversifies Crude Imports Away From Middle East Dependence.

India's Import Strategy

India has accelerated efforts to reduce dependence on Middle Eastern crude as the U.S.-Iran conflict highlights supply vulnerability. Indian refiners are increasing purchases from Russia, Guyana, Brazil, and West Africa while investing in strategic petroleum reserves. The world's third-largest oil consumer imported 4.8 million bpd in March, with Middle Eastern sources falling from 60% to 48% of total imports over the past year.