India’s imports of Russian crude oil saw a significant decline in December 2025, dropping about 29 per cent month-on-month, according to trade data analysed by industry sources. The reduction comes amid shifting global crude supply dynamics, inventory adjustments and strategic sourcing decisions by refiners responding to price movements, freight considerations and evolving geopolitical factors.
Industry analysts noted that while Russia remains an important supplier, Indian refiners have diversified their crude intake mix, increasing purchases from the Middle East and other regions where alternative grades are more competitively priced or better suited to refining configurations. The drop in Russian crude imports also follows seasonal demand fluctuations, refinery maintenance schedules and geopolitical developments affecting global energy flows.
Despite the month-on-month fall, India continues to be a key destination for Russian oil, with long-term commercial relationships that support energy security and competitive purchasing strategies. Stakeholders say ongoing adjustments reflect market-based decision-making by Indian refiners aiming to optimise feedstock costs and product margins in a volatile global oil market.
The data underscores broader trends in global energy trade, as major buyers like India balance cost, supply reliability and strategic interests while navigating price dynamics and the transition to diversified energy sources.
