Fuel Shortage Crisis: Nayara Gasoline Seized by Traders to Meet Russia's Demand

Fuel Shortage Crisis: Nayara Gasoline Seized by Traders to Meet Russia's Demand​

Indian Refiner Sells Petrol to Russia Amid Global Energy Instability​

Sources with direct knowledge of the matter confirmed on Thursday that gasoline produced by the Indian refiner, Nayara Energy, has been sold to Russia. This move comes as Russia faces significant fuel shortages, exacerbated by Ukrainian attacks targeting its energy infrastructure.

Reuters reported on Wednesday that seaborne imports of gasoline from India had commenced into Russia, though the supplier was not named in the initial report. The implication suggests a critical supply chain adaptation responding to geopolitical pressures.

Nayara Energy, which is backed by Russian oil major Rosneft holding a 49% stake, has become pivotal in this trade route. The company has increasingly relied on independent traders for both importing crude and exporting refined fuels following the EU sanctions implemented last July.

Nayara's Refining Operations and Strategic Shift​

Nayara operates a substantial 400,000 barrels-per-day refinery located in Vadinar, western India. Following the imposition of sanctions, which led other potential suppliers to withdraw support, the company has strategically shifted its feedstock entirely to Russian oil.

This strategic pivot highlights the complex maneuvering within global energy markets. By relying on traders, Nayara is facilitating an essential supply line for Russia despite international scrutiny.

Quantifying Gasoline Shipments to Moscow​

Industry sources provided specific details regarding the volume of gasoline transferred from India to Russia. At least 60,000 metric tons of gasoline had been dispatched from India to Russia, according to one industry source.

Another expert source indicated that two tankers carrying between 30,000 and 40,000 tons each had been sent as part of this shipment. These figures underscore the scale of the specialized trade transaction unfolding.

Tracing the Shipment: Tanker Logs Detail Gasoline Export​

A tanker invoice reviewed by Reuters on Thursday detailed a specific vessel involved in this activity. The ship, named Agni, was loaded with gasoline from Vadinar and sailed bound for Fujairah on June 20th.

Tracking data from LSEG tankering information provided additional context to the shipment's journey. This Cameroon-flagged vessel was observed passing beyond Fujairah while traveling through the Suez Canal, heading northwards.