In December 2025, India reduced its purchases of Russian oil, recording a 38-month low in both value and volume. This drop occurred due to strategic adjustments within its energy supply policy.
The lowest indicator in Russian oil
The data show that imports from Russia amounted to around US$ 2.7 billion, with a relevant contraction compared to November of the same year and also in a year-on-year comparison. As a direct consequence, Russia’s share of total crude oil imports was crude oil imports of India’s crude oil imports fell to about one-quarter of supply.
On the other hand, I detected that the The decline of Russian crude oil coincided with a relative increase in other suppliers. In particular, the United States increased its presence in the Indian energy basket, both in terms of value and volume, consolidating its position as a relevant alternative within the purchasing scheme.
Likewise, this movement is taking place while versions from Washington persist about possible changes in bilateral trade, linked to tariffs and energy flows. With no official confirmation from New Delhi, India’s position remains focused on adjusting its imports according to prices, availability and international market conditions.
Finally, the most structural fact is the increase in the number of supplier countries. During December, India purchased crude oil from 19 nations, reflecting an active diversification strategy that reduces specific dependencies and provides greater flexibility in the face of a changing global energy environment.
Source and photo: The Hindu