India crude imports hit 2026 high in September at 5.26 mbpd
In short
India’s crude oil imports rose to a 2026-high of 5.26 million barrels per day in September. The reports say Gulf supplies increased, and Iraq became India’s second-largest supplier after Russia.
This matters because it changes where India buys its oil and may affect refiners. The reporting does not say whether this will change prices, margins, or future import plans.
What the reporting says
India’s crude oil imports rose to a 2026-high of 5.26 million barrels per day in September, according to publisher summaries. The reports say Gulf supplies surged and Iraq became India’s second-largest supplier after Russia, while increased flows through the Strait of Hormuz improved access to Middle Eastern crude. The immediate consequence is higher import dependence, but the precise policy or pricing impact is not stated.
Why it matters
India recorded crude imports of 5.26 million barrels per day in September, the highest level cited for 2026. The publisher summaries say Gulf supply rose and Iraq moved ahead as the second-largest supplier after Russia, with more flows through the Strait of Hormuz helping refiners access Middle Eastern crude. The immediate market relevance is to Indian refiners and import sourcing, though the longer-term effect is not stated.