MUMBAI (Diya TV) — Reliance Industries, India’s largest private refiner, has sharply increased its crude oil purchases from the Middle East. The move comes as global sanctions tighten on Russian energy exports and Western pressure on India grows.
The company reportedly bought at least 2.5 million barrels of crude in recent weeks from Iraq’s Basrah Medium and Qatar’s Al-Shaheen and Qatar Land grades. This is significantly higher than its usual purchases and reflects Reliance’s search for alternatives to Russian oil.
The shift follows remarks by President Donald Trump earlier this month. Trump claimed that India had agreed to reduce its imports of Russian crude. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would “stop buying Russian crude within a short period of time.” India later denied that any such phone call took place and emphasized that its import strategy is guided by the need to safeguard Indian consumers in a volatile energy scenario.
With mounting pressure from the U.S. and the European Union, India appears to be adjusting its crude sourcing strategy. Reliance’s increased purchases from the Middle East align with these efforts.
Reliance stated it will comply with new EU guidelines restricting refined product imports linked to Russian crude. A company spokesperson said, “We have noted the recent restrictions announced by the EU, UK, and the U.S. on crude oil imports from Russia and export of refined products to Europe. Reliance will comply with the EU’s guidelines and, as always, with any guidance from the Indian government.”
The company operates the world’s largest refining complex at Jamnagar on India’s west coast. Reliance has been one of the largest importers of discounted Russian crude since Western sanctions began. The company now plans to diversify crude sources and adjust refinery operations to meet international requirements while maintaining supply stability for both domestic and export markets.
According to Reuters, Reliance has already secured additional crude consignments from the U.S. and the Middle East. These shipments are expected to arrive at Jamnagar between December and January. This step will help the company align operations with evolving international sanctions without disrupting the supply chain.
Analysts say Reliance’s strategy reflects the broader challenges facing India’s energy market. Russian crude has been a cost-effective option for Indian refiners. However, international sanctions and geopolitical pressure are pushing companies to find new sources.
Shifting to Middle Eastern and U.S. crude may increase costs temporarily. But experts believe it will ensure compliance with global regulations and secure an uninterrupted supply for domestic and international consumers. Energy officials in India have emphasized that maintaining stable prices for Indian consumers remains a top priority.
Reliance’s recent moves suggest India is preparing for a more complex energy environment. The company’s ability to adjust sourcing quickly shows its resilience in global markets. As international sanctions evolve, Reliance is likely to continue diversifying its crude oil sources to balance cost, compliance, and supply security.
