Archive · 19 Aug 2025
China Increases Russian Oil Imports After India's Purchases Decrease
China is increasing its purchases of Russian oil, stepping in as India, a major buyer, reduces its demand.
This shift follows potential US tariffs and a change in the price discounts for Russian oil.
US officials say India is making a profit from reselling the oil and are considering imposing tariffs.
China's move could also reduce its need for more expensive oil from the Middle East, but the price differential is closing.
Despite potential sanctions, refiners find Russian oil still attractive.
China purchased 15 Russian oil cargoes for October/November delivery, as Indian demand wanes.
India reduced Russian oil purchases due to narrowing discounts and potential US tariffs.
US officials accuse India of profiting from reselling Russian oil and threaten tariffs.
Russian Urals crude offers favorable economics for refiners.
Chinese refiners may decrease demand for Middle Eastern crude.
- Who
- Chinese and Indian refiners, US officials, Donald Trump.
- What
- Shift in Russian oil buyers from India to China.
- When
- October and November 2025.
- Where
- China and India.
- Why
- Due to India reducing purchases and narrowing discounts on Russian oil, as well as potential US sanctions.
US View
India and China
Profitability
US View
India is profiteering from buying Russian oil.
India and China
India is operating with favorable economics and is not profiteering.
Tariff Imposition
US View
Tariffs on Indian Imports should be increased.
India and China
China is importing at sub-optimal levels, but tariffs should not be increased.
- Cargoes Purchased by China
- 15
- Crude Types
- Urals, Varandey
- India's Russian Oil Share
- 38%
- Chinese imports (Urals)
- 50,000 barrels per day
- Middle Eastern Crude Price
- $2 to $3 more expensive per barrel
Sources
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