India Faces Economic Risks from Rising Energy Costs Amid West Asia Conflict
Rising energy, shipping costs from West Asia conflict pose growth risk: FinMin
Moneycontrol
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India's Finance Ministry warns that the ongoing conflict in West Asia is escalating crude oil prices and shipping costs, threatening inflation and economic growth. The situation is exacerbated by supply disruptions and heightened geopolitical risks, with crude oil imports from the Gulf region comprising over half of India's total merchandise imports.
- 01Crude oil shut-in projections have increased significantly, with June estimates rising to 8,825 thousand barrels per day.
- 02Brent crude oil prices averaged $120.4 per barrel in April 2026, moderating to $108.3 in May.
- 03Crude oil and petroleum products accounted for 53.9% of India's total merchandise imports from the West GCC region in FY26.
- 04The Geopolitical Risk Index reached its highest level in over five years in April 2026.
- 05India has diversified its crude oil import sources despite maritime route disruptions.
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The Finance Ministry of India has highlighted significant economic risks arising from the ongoing conflict in West Asia, particularly due to rising crude oil prices and increased shipping costs. The Monthly Economic Review for May noted that these developments could exacerbate inflation and hinder economic growth. The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) has revised its projections for crude oil production shut-ins, forecasting an increase to 8,825 thousand barrels per day in June from an earlier estimate of 4,947 thousand bpd. The review indicated that these supply disruptions could complicate global disinflation efforts and delay monetary easing, particularly affecting energy-importing emerging markets. Additionally, the Geopolitical Risk Index has surged to its highest level in over five years, reflecting heightened tensions. The ministry also pointed out that crude oil and petroleum products represent 53.9% of India's imports from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. To mitigate these risks, India is strengthening its strategic cooperation with the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) for LPG supplies and storage, which could enhance energy security amidst ongoing challenges.
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Rising energy costs are likely to increase inflation and affect economic growth in India, impacting consumers and businesses reliant on energy imports.
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