Fuel Oil (Virgin 180cST Furnace Oil) in Mundra

Petroleum and bitumen prices are on an upward trend in India amid geopolitical tensions, Red Sea disruptions, and strong domestic infrastructure demand. Crude discoveries and global policy shifts add to volatility. While Indian prices rise, European bitumen prices remain weak. Market outlook stays firm, though tempered by economic and geopolitical risks.

Crude oil prices dipped slightly, with Brent at $71.91 and WTI at $68.02 per barrel. Indian refiners continue to prioritize discounted Russian crude despite sanctions, with March imports rising to 1.85 million bpd. Domestic petroleum product prices remain steady across key regions, while geopolitical factors continue to shape supply chains.

Crude oil prices are showing modest gains amid OPEC+ cuts and fresh U.S. sanctions on Iran. India’s crude output continues to decline, pushing import dependence to 89.4%. Global supply remains tight. Despite optimistic trends, domestic production struggles persist, reinforcing the need for upstream investment and policy reforms.

Indian refiners continue to benefit from discounted Russian crude, driving strong fuel exports to the US. Despite sanctions, Russian oil indirectly enters global markets through refined products. Regulatory scrutiny may tighten, but demand for Indian refined fuel remains high. Future trade dynamics will depend on crude prices and policy shifts.

India is diversifying crude oil imports, increasing purchases from Africa and South America while reducing Russian intake due to U.S. sanctions. Despite falling crude prices globally, domestic fuel rates remain stable, benefiting refiners.

Petroleum product prices remain stable, with base oil, fuel oil, and specialty oil rates varying by grade and packaging. Russian crude exports to India declined due to US sanctions, raising concerns over rising costs. Indian refiners are negotiating deeper discounts, while long-term supply agreements remain uncertain amid evolving global trade policies.

China’s crude oil imports fell 5% in early 2025 due to U.S. sanctions and port restrictions, raising freight costs and limiting supply. Refined product exports dropped 18%, while LNG imports declined 7.7%. However, imports are expected to rebound in March-April as refiners adapt, securing alternative crude and attracting more non-sanctioned tankers.

India's crude oil imports from the U.S. hit a two-year high as refiners sought alternatives to Russian supplies amid sanctions. Russian imports declined slightly, with Middle Eastern suppliers filling the gap. Fresh U.S. sanctions on Russian oil impacted revenues, reshaping global trade flows. Competitive pricing and supply diversification will continue.

India's petroleum market is witnessing a shift in crude oil supply as Russian Urals shipments to Turkey decline, increasing availability for Indian refiners. Oil prices remain volatile due to OPEC+ production hikes and geopolitical uncertainties. Despite increased supply, India's demand for Urals crude remains strong, supported by long-term contracts.