India has significantly ramped up its crude oil imports from the United States since President Donald Trump returned for a second term, signaling a notable shift in New Delhi’s energy procurement strategy, sources familiar with trade data revealed.
Between January and June 2025, India’s imports of US crude rose by 51% compared to the same period last year—surging from 0.18 million barrels per day (mb/d) in early 2024 to 0.271 mb/d this year.
This trend intensified in the April–June quarter, where imports spiked by an impressive 114% year-on-year. In terms of value, India’s crude purchases from the US more than doubled, rising from USD 1.73 billion in Q1 of 2024–25 to USD 3.7 billion in Q1 of 2025–26.
The upward trajectory continued into July, with India importing 23% more US crude than in June 2025. The US share in India’s total crude imports grew from just 3% to 8% within a month. Sources also indicated that Indian oil companies plan to raise US crude imports by 150% for the 2025–26 fiscal year.
Beyond crude oil, energy trade has expanded to include liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG). LNG imports from the US reached USD 2.46 billion in FY 2024–25, up nearly 100% from USD 1.41 billion the previous year. Talks are reportedly underway for a long-term LNG deal worth tens of billions of dollars.
This surge in energy trade comes amid growing optimism in bilateral ties. Addressing the media on Friday, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal underscored the resilience of the US–India relationship.
“India and the United States share a comprehensive global strategic partnership anchored in shared interests, democratic values, and robust people-to-people ties. This partnership has weathered several transitions and challenges,” Jaiswal said. “We remain focused on the substantive agenda that our two countries have committed to and are confident that the relationship will continue to move forward.”
The energy sector is emerging as a critical pillar in the strengthening India–US partnership, demonstrating New Delhi’s strategy of maintaining robust ties with Washington regardless of political shifts.
