India’s crude oil imports surged in October as several refineries resumed full operations following scheduled maintenance shutdowns, signalling a strong rebound in fuel demand. According to trade data and market analysts, Indian refiners ramped up purchases to meet the growing consumption spurred by the festive season, a recent cut in Goods and Services Tax (GST) on aviation turbine fuel, and increased travel activity across the country.

Industry sources note that private refiners such as Reliance Industries and Nayara Energy, along with state-owned majors including Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), significantly increased their crude intake to replenish stocks and meet higher gasoline and diesel demand. The recent tax relief on aviation fuel is also expected to provide a strong tailwind for jet fuel consumption as domestic air travel continues to surge post-pandemic.

India, the world’s third-largest oil importer, is balancing its supply sources between discounted Russian barrels and Middle Eastern grades to optimize refining margins. With robust domestic consumption and strategic refinery upgrades, India’s refining throughput is expected to rise further through the final quarter of 2025, positioning the country as a key driver of global oil demand growth.