Africa's leading oil exporters are gaining ground in one of the world's largest energy markets as Indian refiners increase purchases from Nigeria and Angola amid supply disruptions in the Middle East and a broader effort to diversify crude sources.
Since late 2025, Indian energy companies have been deepening engagement with African oil producers, particularly Angola, as New Delhi seeks to strengthen its long-term energy security and diversify crude supply sources.
During a four-day state visit to Angola, Indian President Droupadi Murmu said Indian oil and gas companies were interested in securing long-term crude purchase agreements with African producers, a push that now appears to be gaining momentum.
State-owned Indian Oil Corp. (IOC), India's largest refiner, last week purchased 5 million barrels of crude through a tender that included cargoes from West Africa and the Middle East, according to trade sources.
According to The Economic Times, the purchases included Angola's Kissanje and Nemba crude grades for delivery to IOC's Paradip refinery and Nigeria's Usan crude from ExxonMobil for delivery to Vadinar.
