Russian oil now diverted to India, tankers heading to China changed course
New Delhi: A major shift is underway in the global energy market. According to reports, crude oil tankers bound for China from Russia have made a U-turn in the South China Sea and are headed toward India. This development comes at a time when India has rapidly increased its oil imports from Russia. According to a report by the international agency Bloomberg, India has doubled its purchases of Russian oil in recent days. Consequently, many ships previously destined for China are now being diverted to India. Ship tracking data shows that one such tanker is scheduled to arrive at New Mangalore Port on March 21st.
According to reports, this tanker was loaded at a port in the Baltic Sea in late January and its original destination was Rizhao Port in China. However, in March, it abruptly changed course in Southeast Asian waters and is now heading toward India. This change comes after the United States temporarily allowed India to purchase oil from Russia. Upon receiving this exemption, India increased its imports to meet its energy needs.
According to reports, within just one week, Indian refineries purchased approximately 30 million barrels of crude oil from Russia. This not only meets the country’s energy needs but also helps ensure India’s stable supply amid ongoing global tensions. Meanwhile, other countries are also showing interest in purchasing Russian oil. While China was previously a major buyer, countries like Japan and South Korea may also return to the market. This is expected to lead to volatility and a possible increase in crude oil prices in the future.
According to energy analysis firm Vortexa Limited, at least seven tankers have changed their route from China to India during their journey. This clearly indicates that India is now becoming a major importer of Russian oil. Additionally, a Suezmax tanker named Zhuzhou N. has also reported its next destination as Sikka Port in India and is expected to arrive by March 25. According to data analytics company Kpler, this tanker is carrying Kazakh CPC blend crude.
