New Delhi: India has asked its refiners to report weekly data on Russian and U.S. oil imports as part of efforts to strengthen trade negotiations with the United States, sources told Reuters. The government expects Russian crude purchases to drop below 1 million barrels per day (bpd) in the coming months.
Following the 2022 Ukraine war, India became the world’s largest buyer of discounted Russian crude, drawing Western criticism. In response to India’s heavy Russian oil imports, the U.S. doubled import tariffs on Indian goods to 50% last year. The new weekly reporting is meant to provide the Modi government with verified data to share with U.S. officials.
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Sources said the information will remain internal and is intended to ensure accurate reporting to the U.S., rather than relying on third-party estimates. Indian refiners, including Reliance Industries and Indian Oil Corp, have not been instructed to cut purchases but are expected to reduce Russian imports due to sanctions and ongoing negotiations.
Analysts noted that Russian oil flows to India fell to a three-year low of 1.2 million bpd in December 2025, down from around 2 million bpd in June. Meanwhile, imports of U.S. crude are rising, reflecting India’s aim to diversify sources amid trade talks.
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The weekly reporting requirement marks the first time India has asked refiners for oil origin data on such a frequent basis. It signals New Delhi’s intention to balance energy security needs with diplomatic and trade priorities with the U.S.