India's Russian Fossil Fuel Imports Drop to Third Place in December

India has seen a significant shift in its import status regarding Russian fossil fuels. In December 2025, India fell to the third position among countries importing Russian oil, as reported by various sources, including The Hindu and The Guardian. The decline in imports was primarily attributed to a reduction in purchases by Reliance Industries, one of India's largest conglomerates.

Previously, India was the second-largest buyer of Russian crude oil, with prices being notably lower compared to that of Middle Eastern sources. The decrease in imports coincides with a broader strategy by Reliance to adjust its purchasing patterns in response to fluctuating global oil markets and refinery output.

According to data analysed by The Guardian, Russian crude oil remains an economically appealing option for India, especially in light of global economic pressures and ongoing geopolitical issues. However, Indian refiners have recently scaled back their intake, affecting the volume of imports.

As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, India’s engagement with Russian energy supplies remains significant. The country's energy strategy appears to be focused on balancing affordability and energy security, with Russian oil playing a crucial role.

A representative for Reliance Industries stated, “We continually assess our supply chains to ensure we make the best procurement decisions based on market conditions and our operational capacity.”

It is worth noting that Russia has been actively working to circumvent international sanctions aimed at reducing its energy export capabilities, particularly to countries like India. This development indicates that while the volumes may have decreased, the strategic partnership for energy resources remains a priority for both nations.

Moreover, India’s reliance on Russian oil underscores its efforts to diversify energy imports amidst increasing scrutiny and volatility in the global oil markets. As the situation develops, observers will be keen to see how India's energy policies adapt to these changing circumstances.