Particle.news

Download on the App Store

India Maintains Russian Oil Purchases Despite U.S. Tariffs

New Delhi’s refiners cite long-term contracts alongside discounted Russian crude to justify continuing purchases under steep U.S. tariffs

FILE - An oil tanker is moored at the Sheskharis complex, part of Chernomortransneft JSC, a subsidiary of Transneft PJSC, in Novorossiysk, Russia, on Oct. 11, 2022, one of the largest facilities for oil and petroleum products in southern Russia. (AP Photo, File)
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • On July 30, President Trump imposed a 25% tariff on Indian imports and threatened additional penalties over New Delhi’s energy and military ties with Russia.
  • The Ministry of External Affairs and state oil companies have publicly denied any halt in Russian crude imports, pointing to binding long-term supply contracts.
  • India’s use of discounted Russian oil has helped stabilize domestic fuel prices even as its U.S. crude imports surged by more than 50% in the first half of 2025.
  • Kpler and other analysts warn that a forced shift away from Russian crude could boost India’s annual oil import bill by $9–11 billion as the EU readies curbs on refined exports.
  • With U.S.–India trade talks set for August 25, Indian economic ministries are drafting tariff concession proposals while exporters in textiles and steel seek urgent government relief.