Iraq oil exports to India remain a major part of the country’s global energy trade. In September, Iraq maintained its position as India’s second-largest crude oil supplier. The country exported 904,000 barrels per day to India, up from 730,000 barrels in August. This rise highlights Iraq’s growing role in meeting India’s energy needs.
Russia continues to supply the most oil to India, accounting for 33.3 percent of imports. India purchased 1.6 million barrels per day from Russia in September, slightly down from 1.7 million barrels in August. Saudi Arabia and the UAE follow Iraq in India’s import rankings, securing third and fourth positions, respectively.
India is the world’s third-largest oil consumer and depends on imports for more than 85 percent of its needs. The country sources oil from around 30 different countries to ensure supply security. Iraqi crude oil shipments to India have fluctuated over the past year. During the first half of 2025, Iraq exported an average of 860,000 barrels per day, slightly lower than the 900,000 barrels per day recorded in the same period in 2024.
This shift partly reflects India’s early-year move to diversify suppliers. Indian refineries began reducing Russian oil imports after the government issued guidance weeks before U.S. sanctions took effect. Western sanctions on Moscow disrupted global oil flows, forcing buyers to seek alternative suppliers like Iraq.
Iraq oil exports to India continue to support both countries’ economic and energy objectives. Analysts note that reliable shipments from Iraq help Indian refineries maintain operations without major disruptions. Energy observers also emphasize that Iraq’s stable supply reinforces long-term energy cooperation between Baghdad and New Delhi.
The trend underlines Iraq’s importance in the global oil market. As sanctions, geopolitical tensions, and price fluctuations challenge energy security, Iraq oil exports to India provide a dependable source for one of the world’s largest consumers.