India Denies Entry to Russian Oil Tanker Over Documentation Issues
India’s port authorities have denied entry to the oil tanker Andaman Skies, carrying Russian crude oil, over documentation concerns, sources familiar with the matter revealed. The decision marks a rare instance of India tightening its scrutiny of Russian oil shipments, amid growing global pressure on Moscow’s energy trade.
The Tanzania-flagged vessel, loaded with approximately 100,000 metric tons (about 800,000 barrels) of Varandey crude from Russia’s northern Murmansk port, was bound for the Vadinar Port in Gujarat for delivery to Indian Oil Corporation (IOC). However, it was turned away due to non-compliance with India’s shipping regulations, the sources said on condition of anonymity.
Tighter Regulations for Ageing Tankers
India, the world’s third-largest oil importer and consumer, has become the biggest buyer of seaborne Russian crude since sanctions were imposed on Moscow following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Russian oil accounted for about 35% of India’s total crude imports in 2024, highlighting the country’s reliance on discounted supplies from Russia.
However, Indian authorities have implemented strict entry rules for oil tankers, particularly those older than 20 years. According to regulations, such vessels must possess a seaworthiness certification from a member of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) or an entity recognized by India’s maritime administration.
The Andaman Skies, built in 2004, was certified by Dakar Class, an India-based classification body that is not recognized by Indian authorities. This discrepancy led to the vessel being denied permission to dock, sources confirmed.
Insurance and Compliance Concerns
The vessel’s protection and indemnity (P&I) insurance is provided by Russian insurer Soglasie, two sources with knowledge of the vessel’s documentation stated. Although this does not necessarily violate Indian regulations, the country’s refiners have increasingly sought assurances that vessels transporting crude are compliant with global and domestic shipping laws.
Despite the tanker having visited India as recently as December 2024, the new scrutiny suggests a shift in India’s approach toward Russian oil shipments, likely influenced by evolving geopolitical and regulatory pressures. Indian authorities, including Vadinar port officials and Indian Oil Corporation representatives, have not publicly commented on the incident.
Impact of U.S. Sanctions on Russian Oil Trade
This development follows a significant decline in Russian oil shipments to India and China in early 2025, attributed to new U.S. sanctions targeting Moscow’s energy sector. The sanctions, introduced in January, blacklisted over 100 ships and entities linked to Russian oil exports, making it more challenging for Russian oil traders to secure vessels and insurance coverage.
India’s oil secretary recently reaffirmed the country’s stance on procuring Russian crude, stating that refiners would only purchase oil from suppliers and ships not designated under U.S. sanctions. This policy has effectively narrowed the pool of eligible vessels, potentially increasing scrutiny on those attempting to enter Indian ports.
Uncertainties in the Russian Oil Market
The rejection of Andaman Skies could signal a broader shift in India’s handling of Russian crude shipments. With increasing regulatory pressure, older vessels or those lacking recognized certification may face additional hurdles in securing access to Indian ports.
While the vessel itself is subject to sanctions by the UK and European Union, it has not been designated under U.S. or United Nations sanctions. India adheres strictly to UN sanctions, meaning the ship’s rejection was likely based on regulatory non-compliance rather than geopolitical considerations.
The ship’s owner, Durbeen Navigation Ltd, remains uncontacted for comment, and neither Lukoil—the crude seller nor insurer Soglasie has responded to inquiries from media sources.
Looking Ahead
The incident underscores the growing challenges for Russian oil exporters in navigating tightening restrictions and compliance measures in key markets like India. With global scrutiny on shadow fleets and ageing tankers intensifying, more vessels could face similar obstacles in the near future.
For Indian refiners, the rejection of Andaman Skies highlights the importance of ensuring strict adherence to domestic shipping norms, even as they continue to leverage discounted Russian crude amid fluctuating global oil prices. The move could also signal India’s willingness to align more closely with international maritime safety and compliance standards, balancing its energy security with regulatory obligations.
As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, market participants will be closely watching how India navigates its relationship with Russian oil, balancing economic interests with regulatory compliance.
