Ship-tracking data show India's September crude imports from the Middle East rose sharply to pre-war levels. Amid increased competition, Indian refiners reduced purchases of Russian crude. As Middle Eastern producers and traders boosted shipments via the Strait of Hormuz, refiners rushed into the spot market, easing supply tightness that had followed Iran-related conflict.

2026-10-22

Ship-tracking data show India's September crude imports from the Middle East rose sharply to pre-war levels. Amid increased competition, Indian refiners reduced purchases of Russian crude. As Middle Eastern producers and traders boosted shipments via the Strait of Hormuz, refiners rushed into the spot market, easing supply tightness that had followed Iran-related conflict.