India has begun gradually reducing its imports of Russian oil and is increasing energy purchases from the United States and other sources, according to the United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.
Greer said on Tuesday that India has started scaling back its purchases of Russian crude. He stated that India is expanding energy imports from the United States and other international sources. He described the move as part of a shift in India’s energy security and trade strategy.
According to Greer, the change forms part of India’s strategy to meet its energy requirements through diversified sources. Russia had remained a principal energy supplier to India for an extended period. In recent months, however, India has increased energy imports from the U.S. market and other international suppliers.
Following recent high-level discussions in Washington, positive changes have been observed in trade relations between India and the United States. India and the United States have agreed on a framework for an interim trade agreement. Under this framework, both countries will reduce import duties on several goods to promote bilateral trade.
The agreement is expected to provide direct benefits to Indian traders in sectors including electronics, agricultural products, and machinery. The move is also expected to contribute to strengthening trade ties between the two countries and support India’s energy security.
According to data for January 2026, India’s imports of Russian oil declined to approximately 1.215 million barrels per day (bpd). This is lower than the 1.25 million barrels per day recorded in December 2025 and below levels recorded last year.
Russia’s share in India’s total oil imports, which had once reached 35–40 percent, has now fallen below 25 percent. The data indicates that India has begun prioritising energy purchases from alternative sources and is working toward diversifying its energy requirements while increasing engagement with international markets.
The United States considers the shift significant. It views India as a reliable trade partner and as a centre for friend-shoring, with the objective of reducing dependence on China and securing supply chains.
Under this approach, India is linking its economic activity and energy security more closely with the United States and other international sources. The move is positioned within broader efforts concerning global trade and strategic security.
By increasing energy imports from the United States, India is seeking to ensure its long-term energy security. The move reflects greater reliance on dollar-based trade and confidence in U.S. stability as part of India’s energy strategy.
Experts have stated that diversifying energy imports may provide India with greater price stability and strengthen its position in the global energy market. They said the shift has become an integral component of India’s energy diplomacy.
Under the trade agreement with the United States, import duties on several goods will be reduced. The measure is expected to provide direct benefits to Indian traders, particularly in electronics, agricultural products, and machinery, and to facilitate greater integration of India’s economy with global trade and enhance competitiveness in international markets.
