India Eyes Greater US Energy Supplies Amid Global Disruptions

Following the meeting, Puri said the discussions were productive and aimed at deepening the comprehensive energy relationship between the two countries. Diversification of Energy Sources Gains Momentum India has been actively diversifying its energy sourcing strategy, particularly in light of disruptions in supplies from West Asia. The region earlier accounted for nearly 90 percent of India’s LPG imports, but supplies have declined significantly due to the ongoing conflict. The United States has emerged as a key alternative supplier. In November 2025, Indian state-run oil marketing companies signed a one-year agreement to import approximately 2.2 million tonnes of LPG from the US for 2026, accounting for about 10 percent of India’s total LPG requirement. The US ambassador also highlighted the importance of expanding access to reliable American energy supplies to strengthen energy security and support long-term economic growth in both countries. Upcoming Delegation Visit to the US The meeting comes ahead of a three-day visit by an Indian delegation to the US, beginning April 20, to advance negotiations on a proposed bilateral trade agreement. The delegation will be led by Darpan Jain, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Officials said the talks will mark the resumption of in-person negotiations after a gap of several months, during which discussions continued virtually. India has outlined plans to import goods worth 500 billion from the US over the next five years, including energy products, aircraft and parts, precious metals, and technology items. Progress and Setbacks in Trade Agreement Earlier, both countries had agreed on the broad contours of the first phase of a bilateral trade agreement, which included a reduction in US tariffs on Indian exports from 50 percent to around 18 percent. However, progress was disrupted after the US Supreme Court set aside reciprocal duties introduced earlier, following which the US imposed a temporary uniform tariff of 10 percent on imports from all countries for a 150-day period starting February 24. The ongoing engagement reflects efforts by both sides to deepen economic ties while addressing energy security concerns amid global uncertainties. (KNN Bureau)