In what appears to be a strategic move to ease trade frictions with the Trump administration, India has significantly increased its crude oil imports from the United States, reaching the highest level since October 2022, according to energy analytics firm Kpler.
As of October 27, India’s imports from the US surged to 540,000 barrels per day (bpd). The month is projected to close at nearly 575,000 bpd, while November volumes are expected to range between 400,000 and 450,000 bpd, PTI reported. This marks a sharp rise from the average of 300,000 bpd recorded earlier in 2025.
Economic Drivers Behind the Surge
Analysts attribute the spike to favorable market dynamics. A wider price gap between Brent and WTI crude and muted Chinese demand have made US-grade WTI Midland oil more cost-effective for Indian refiners. These conditions created a strong trade window, allowing India to purchase US crude at competitive rates.
Despite the increase in US oil imports, Russia remains India’s largest crude supplier, accounting for nearly one-third of total imports, followed by Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Indian refiners are also expanding their purchases of US crude grades like Midland WTI and Mars to diversify supply sources and reinforce energy cooperation with Washington, according to PTI.
Strategic and Diplomatic Implications
The rise in US crude imports comes amid tightened sanctions on Russian oil companies, including Rosneft and Lukoil. Expanding trade with the US is viewed as part of New Delhi’s strategy to balance economic pragmatism with geopolitical considerations, particularly after Washington imposed higher tariffs on Indian exports under the Trump administration.
Short-Term Spike, Long-Term Challenges
Experts caution that the current surge may be temporary. Longer shipping routes, higher freight costs, and the lighter nature of WTI crude could limit future import growth.
Nevertheless, the growing share of US oil in India’s energy mix underscores the country’s commitment to diversifying its energy portfolio, reducing dependency on Russian supplies, and strengthening strategic ties with the United States — a move that enhances both energy security and diplomatic balance.
