India Blocks Russian Oil Tanker Over Documentation Issues

On March 27, 2025, Indian port officials denied entry to the Tanzanian-flagged oil tanker Andaman Skies due to insufficient paperwork. This vessel was transporting a hefty load of 100,000 metric tons (approximately 800,000 barrels) of Russian Varandey crude and was en route to Vadinar Port for delivery to the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC).

According to Indian maritime regulations, tankers over two decades old must possess a seaworthiness certificate from a classification society recognized by the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) or an entity authorized by India’s maritime authority.The Andaman Skies, constructed in 2004 and certified by Dakar Class—a local classification society not acknowledged by Indian authorities—was turned away despite having previously entered Indian waters as recently as December 2024.

India stands as the third-largest consumer and importer of oil globally and is notably the biggest buyer of Russian crude transported via sea routes.Actually, around 35% of India’s total crude imports in 2024 came from Russia. Though,Western sanctions on Russian oil have complex matters significantly; this has led to heightened scrutiny regarding vessels involved in these shipments.

While the Andaman Skies has been sanctioned by both the UK and EU, it remains outside US or UN sanctions. India adheres strictly only to UN sanctions but recent developments suggest that they are tightening their grip on Russian oil imports.

Since January 2024, over a hundred Russian oil tankers have faced stringent US sanctions that complicate compliance for suppliers looking for vessels willing to transport their cargoes. The Indian oil secretary recently emphasized that refiners woudl only source Russian crude from companies and ships not under sanction—this policy has drastically reduced available shipping options.

Typically,when purchasing Russian oil on a delivered basis—where sellers handle shipping logistics—the obligation falls on them for arranging insurance too. Even though Soglasie provided insurance coverage for Andaman Skies through it’s connections with Russia’s Lukoil—the seller—it didn’t suffice in ensuring smooth entry into port.

Interestingly enough, data shows that US crude exports surged to India at an impressive rate of about 357,000 barrels per day in February 2025 compared with just over half that amount in previous years—a clear indication of shifting dynamics within global energy markets.

As inquiries were made regarding this incident involving both Vadinar port authorities and IOC representatives—they remained silent without any comments forthcoming from either party involved.

In summary: while geopolitical tensions continue shaping trade routes worldwide—including those involving crucial energy supplies—India’s evolving stance reflects broader trends impacting how nations navigate complex international waters today.