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EconomyThe Hindu9 July 2026

Russia's share in Indian oil imports crossed 40% in May 2026 even as premium pricing continued

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πŸ“Œ Summary:

  • Russia's share in India's oil imports rose above 40% in May 2026 β€” the highest in nearly two years (Ministry of Commerce and Industry data)
  • Russia charged India a premium for its oil, while the U.S. and UAE sold oil to India at lower-than-average prices
  • India is diversifying its crude sources: it resumed importing oil from Iran and Venezuela in April 2026 and continued in May

🎯 UPSC Relevance: GS2 IR (India–Russia relations amid Western sanctions) and GS3 Economy β€” energy security, import diversification, and trade balance implications

πŸ“ Prelims Facts:

  • Russia became India's largest crude supplier after 2022, displacing traditional West Asian suppliers
  • India is the world's third-largest crude oil importer and consumer
  • Import data is published by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry

πŸ”‘ Key Term: Energy security β€” assured availability of energy at affordable prices; India imports over 85% of its crude oil needs, making source diversification strategic

India-Russiaoil importsenergy securitytrade

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