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Kpler

Industry News
Source: Baird Maritime

Chinese Demand and Supply Constraints Cut Russian Crude Flows to Indian Refiners

Indian refiners anticipate tighter supplies of Russian crude in October and November 2026 as China steps up purchases and Russian export availability contracts. According to analytics firm Kpler, Russian crude arrivals in India are projected to decline to approximately 1.75 million barrels per day in September. As a result, Indian buyers are turning to alternative supplies, including UAE Murban crude, Iraqi Basrah, and Angolan barrels.

China–UAE News
Source: Reuters

Chinese Demand And Reduced Russian Exports Drive Indian Refiners Toward UAE Crude

Indian refiners expect Russian crude supplies to tighten further through November as Chinese buyers outbid competitors and book cargoes in advance. To replace Russian barrels, Indian refiners are turning to alternatives including UAE Murban crude. Meanwhile, exports from major Middle East producers rebounded in September, supported by increased output from the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Industry News
Source: UAE-China Chamber of Commerce

China Raises Crude Purchases From Gulf Exporters Amid Rebounding Asian Demand

Asian crude oil imports are projected to reach 23.96 million barrels per day in September 2026, supported by shipments from Arabian Gulf exporters. China increased purchases to 8.93 million barrels per day in August 2026, marking a 6.2 percent month-on-month rise. Tanker tracking data confirms an ongoing recovery in maritime energy flows connecting Gulf terminals to Chinese refineries.

Industry News
Source: EnergyNow.com

Tankers Transit Strait of Hormuz on First Day of US Blockade

Shipping tracking data shows three Iran-linked tankers transited the Strait of Hormuz during the initial day of a US blockade targeting vessels calling at Iranian ports. Because the vessels were not sailing to Iranian docks, they were not covered by the maritime blockade. Among the transiting ships was a Chinese-owned tanker carrying methanol loaded at the UAE's Hamriyah port.

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