New Delhi: In a significant development, a Russian oil tanker originally headed to China has changed course mid-journey and is now bound for India, reflecting a surge in India’s crude oil imports.
According to ship-tracking data, the tanker Aqua Titan, carrying Urals crude, departed from a Baltic port in late January and was initially headed to the Chinese port of Rizhao. However, it made a U-turn in the South China Sea and is now expected to arrive at New Mangalore on March 21.
The diversion comes after a temporary green signal from former US President Donald Trump allowing the purchase of Russian crude, leading to increased imports by India. In the first week following the relaxation, Indian refiners reportedly imported around 30 million barrels of Russian oil.
As more countries, including Japan and South Korea, began purchasing Russian crude, several shipments originally destined for China were redirected based on demand. Analysts suggest that global crude prices may rise amid increasing competition.
Cargo tracking firm Vortexa Ltd reported that at least seven tankers have diverted from routes to China and headed toward India. Another vessel, the Liberia-flagged Suezmax tanker Sosno, is also being rerouted to India and is expected to reach Sikka port in Gujarat by March 25.
Earlier, China had been the largest buyer of Russian crude following a decline in India’s imports. However, recent shifts indicate a renewed surge in Indian demand.
The developments highlight changing global oil trade dynamics and India’s growing role in the international energy market.
