India says refiners have secured crude oil needs, including from Iran, dismisses diversion claims
In a statement posted on X, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said Indian refiners have secured their crude oil requirements, including supplies from Iran, despite disruptions linked to the ongoing West Asia conflict.
India has dismissed reports claiming that an Iranian crude oil shipment was diverted from its port to China due to payment issues, calling the information "factually incorrect."
In a statement posted on X, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said Indian refiners have secured their crude oil requirements, including supplies from Iran, despite disruptions linked to the ongoing West Asia conflict.
"The news reports and social media posts of an Iranian crude cargo being diverted from Vadinar, India to China due to 'payment issues' are factually incorrect," the ministry said.
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It added that India imports crude oil from more than 40 countries, with refiners having the flexibility to procure supplies based on commercial considerations and market conditions.
Addressing concerns over payments, the ministry said there were no hurdles in importing Iranian crude, contrary to circulating rumours.
It also noted that a vessel named 'Sea Bird', carrying around 44 tonnes of Iranian LPG, berthed at Mangalore port on 2 April and is currently unloading its cargo.
The ministry further explained that claims about cargo diversion often overlook the nature of global oil trade. "Bills of lading may indicate tentative destinations, and shipments can change course mid-voyage based on operational and commercial factors," it said.
Reiterating its position, the ministry said India's crude oil supply remains fully secured for the coming months.
