India is expanding its crude oil imports from Africa, with Angola and Nigeria emerging as key suppliers as part of a broader strategy to strengthen long-term energy security and reduce reliance on traditional supply routes.
Recent trade activity shows Indian state-owned refiners, led by Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), purchasing millions of barrels of crude from West Africa alongside cargoes from the Middle East. The deals include Angola’s Kissanje and Nemba crude grades, as well as Nigeria’s Usan crude, which were delivered to major Indian refineries such as Paradip, Vadinar, and Chennai.
According to trade data and industry sources, IOC recently secured about 5 million barrels of crude through a tender that also included supplies from Abu Dhabi. West African cargoes were reportedly sold at a premium of around $4 per barrel compared to Brent crude, reflecting strong demand.
The increased imports form part of India’s broader diversification strategy, driven by concerns over geopolitical instability in the Middle East and potential disruptions to key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. These risks have pushed Indian refiners to seek more stable and geographically diverse supply sources.
India, which imports more than 80% of its crude oil needs, has increasingly turned to producers in Africa and Latin America, including Angola, Nigeria, Venezuela, and Brazil, to balance its energy mix. Angola produces about 1.1 million barrels per day, while Nigeria remains Africa’s largest oil producer, making both countries significant partners in India’s energy supply chain.
The shift also reflects earlier efforts by Indian refiners to reduce exposure to supply disruptions linked to sanctions and global conflicts, including changes in Russian oil trade flows.
Energy analysts say the growing demand from India could boost export revenues for African producers and deepen economic ties between major oil-consuming and oil-producing regions.
Overall, the trend highlights India’s ongoing effort to secure reliable crude supplies by widening its network of global partners, with Africa playing an increasingly important role in that strategy.
