New Delhi (TDI): Indian refiners have paused new orders for Russian oil purchases following the imposition of international sanctions, as they seek clarity from both the government and suppliers.
Citing sources, Reuters reported that Indian refiners are awaiting guidance on how to navigate the new sanctions and ensure that their purchases do not violate international laws.
Some refineries, including state-run Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), are now turning to the spot market to meet their crude oil needs, while major conglomerate Reliance Industries has increased its purchases from these alternative sources.
The European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States have imposed multiple rounds of sanctions on Russia in response to its war in Ukraine. A recent round of US sanctions, specifically targeting Russia’s top oil producers, Rosneft and Lukoil, has added further pressure on Indian refiners to comply with the global sanctions regime.
Read More:Â Trump Warns India of Massive Tariffs Over Russian Oil Purchases
Indian refiners are now in a delicate position, as they aim to significantly reduce their imports of Russian oil to align with the US sanctions, which could pave the way for smoother trade relations with the US. Last week, Reliance, which has been a major buyer of Russian oil, stated it would adhere to the sanctions while continuing to maintain relationships with other oil suppliers. The firm has also announced plans to stop sourcing oil from Rosneft.
Some previously booked cargoes linked to traders with ties to sanctioned entities were cancelled, the report noted.
Read More:Â EU Warns India: Russia Ties Could Hinder Trade Deal Progress
India’s oil imports from Russia had accounted for 40% of Russia’s total oil exports in the first nine months of 2025, with an average of 1.9 million barrels per day. However, imports from Russia fell by 8.4% year-on-year between April and September 2025, due to a combination of narrower discounts and tighter supply.
Indian refiners are now looking to source more oil from the Middle East and the US to meet their needs.
