Indian refiners halt Russian oil purchases to favor negotiations with Washington

India’s oil industry is making a strategic decision that could reshape hemispheric trade relations. According to industry sources, Indian refiners are deliberately rejecting scheduled Russian crude shipments for March and April, a move that suggests careful alignment with Washington’s interests amid crucial trade negotiations.

Indian Major Oil Companies Reject Russian Crude Offers

Leading Indian oil companies are supporting this commercial strategy. Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation, and Reliance Industries — the three giants in the sector — have decided not to accept offers for Russian oil during loading periods that coincide with March and April. A trader with direct contact with these refiners confirmed that the stance is clear: these Indian corporations are abstaining from new purchases during these critical months, indicating visible coordination within the sector.

India’s Trade Strategy Toward the United States Takes Shape

Bilateral negotiations between India and the United States have advanced significantly. Both nations recently announced a framework aimed at completing trade negotiations by March, according to Jin10 reports. This action by Indian refiners aligns perfectly with this timeline, suggesting that New Delhi is optimizing its trade moves to facilitate a comprehensive agreement.

The timing of this decision is no coincidence. By reducing dependence on Russian supplies in the short term, Indian refiners demonstrate negotiating flexibility and commitment to bilateral trade goals. This gesture could strengthen India’s position in the final negotiations, while the United States recognizes the adjustment effort it entails for an energy-hungry economy like India’s.