India’s crude oil imports surged to an all-time high of 4.93 million barrels per day (bpd) in June, with Russian supplies accounting for more than half of the total volume, according to data from analytics firm Kpler.
The record intake highlights the accelerating shift in global trade flows as Indian refiners continue to absorb discounted Russian crude.
This structural change in sourcing patterns is reshaping the competitive landscape for other major exporters, particularly those in the Middle East, who face increased pressure to maintain market share.
The surge in imports occurred even as geopolitical friction in West Asia raised concerns about potential disruptions to global energy shipments.
Indian refiners have effectively insulated their operations from regional volatility by locking in long-term supply contracts, with sources indicating that supplies for the first half of August have already been secured.
This sustained demand from India provides a floor for global crude prices, offsetting some of the downside risk from slower growth elsewhere.