India Turns to US LPG Amid Disruptions in Middle East Trade
Synopsis
Amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, India has turned to the US for liquefied petroleum gas, surpassing traditional Gulf suppliers in recent imports. This shift aims to ensure uninterrupted cooking fuel availability for Indian households.
Key Takeaways
India is diversifying its LPG supply by increasing imports from the US.
Middle Eastern imports have significantly declined amidst ongoing conflict.
Government measures are in place to ensure uninterrupted household LPG supply.
Operation Sankalp facilitates the secure transportation of LPG tankers.
India's energy infrastructure has adapted to external disruptions.
New Delhi, March 20 (NationPress) — The volume of liquefied petroleum gas shipments from the US to India has notably increased, now exceeding that of conventional suppliers from the Gulf region, according to a recent report. This shift is part of India's strategy to expand its LPG supply in response to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
The report by S&P Global highlights that India's weekly LPG imports dropped to 265,000 metric tonnes (mt) for the week ending March 19, 2026, a decrease from 322,000 mt recorded in the week ending March 5, 2026.
“India is intensifying its efforts to widen its LPG supply sources, including imports from the US, due to concerns regarding the availability of cooking fuel,” the report stated.
Historically, the Gulf region supplied approximately 60 percent of India's LPG needs prior to the escalation of the conflict.
Inflows from the Middle East to India have significantly fallen to just 89,000 mt during the week ending March 19, accounting for only 34 percent of total imports—the lowest proportion since January.
“Supplies from alternative regions rose to 176,000 mt during the week ending March 19, a stark contrast to the previous week when the Middle East dominated with 100 percent of imports,” the report cited data from CAS.
Concerns about LPG availability have been amplified on social media, with images of long queues and delays becoming widespread. However, an independent analysis by IANS asserts that India's energy infrastructure has adapted, evolving into a resilient system capable of handling external disruptions without compromising household requirements.
The government swiftly safeguarded household consumption by instructing oil marketing companies to ensure continuous supply for domestic consumers while imposing temporary limitations on commercial sectors such as restaurants and hotels.
Additionally, regulatory frameworks were established to avert market distortions driven by panic.
Through Operation Sankalp, the Indian Navy has facilitated the secure passage of merchant vessels in sensitive waters, while diplomatic efforts have aided in the movement of LPG tankers through affected routes. Several shipments have successfully reached Indian ports, alleviating supply anxieties.
Point of View
It is crucial to emphasize India's proactive measures in diversifying its LPG supply sources to maintain household energy security amidst geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. This strategy not only highlights resilience but also reflects a commitment to adapting to global market dynamics.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is India importing more LPG from the US?
India is increasing LPG imports from the US to diversify its supply sources amid concerns about availability due to conflicts in the Middle East.
What percentage of India's LPG consumption came from the Gulf before the conflict?
Prior to the conflict, the Gulf region accounted for about 60 percent of India's LPG consumption.
What measures has the Indian government taken to ensure LPG supply?
The Indian government has directed oil marketing companies to prioritize household consumption and implemented regulatory measures to prevent market panic.
How have imports from the Middle East changed recently?
Imports from the Middle East have dropped to just 34 percent of total imports, the lowest share since January.
What is Operation Sankalp?
Operation Sankalp is an initiative by the Indian Navy to ensure the safe passage of merchant vessels in sensitive waters.
