India will continue to source half of its crude oil imports from Russia during July and August, maintaining the high-volume trade relationship that has defined the country's energy strategy over the past year.
The decision underscores New Delhi's commitment to securing affordable supply amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, ensuring that domestic refineries remain well-stocked without disrupting established logistics chains.
This development follows a period of record-high imports, with Indian purchases of Russian crude surging 34% in June to reach all-time highs.
The sustained import levels provide a floor for global crude demand, particularly for Russian grades such as Urals and ESPO.
With India accounting for a significant portion of Moscow's export volumes, the continuity of this trade flow helps stabilize global supply dynamics.
Traders view the predictable demand from the world's largest crude importer as a key factor in preventing excessive volatility in benchmark prices, even as other regions navigate supply constraints.
This development follows a period of record-high imports, with Indian purchases of Russian crude surging 34% in June to reach all-time highs.