List Of Major Petroleum Products Exported From India

India’s petroleum industry plays a vital role in shaping the nation’s economy, with petroleum exports contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings. For Indian exporters, Europe stands out as a key market due to its consistent demand for high-quality petroleum products. Whether it’s refined fuel, lubricants, or petrochemical derivatives, India has carved a niche in delivering value-driven solutions to European industries. 

The petroleum products export from India is a strategic driver of economic growth, strengthening the country’s global trade footprint. A study suggests that during the initial ten months of 2024-25, India exported 2551 kbd of fuel to Europe. It clearly represents Europe’s strong industrial base and high energy requirements make it a significant destination, offering steady business opportunities for Indian exporters. 

In this article, we’ll explore the major European markets, the types of petroleum products India exports, and the impressive revenue generated through this trade. If you’re an Indian exporter aiming to expand in Europe, this is your guide to understanding the opportunities and trends shaping the market.

Let’s get started with looking at the export volumes. 

Statistics on Export Volumes and Revenue

India’s petroleum exports to Europe have witnessed remarkable growth over the years, reflecting the nation’s expanding role in global energy trade. Driven by increasing demand and strategic trade partnerships, export volumes and revenues have reached unprecedented levels. 

This section highlights key statistics that showcase India’s growing influence as a reliable supplier of refined petroleum products, underpinned by consistent export growth and record-breaking figures.

Export Growth and Key Figures

• Europe emerged as the leading destination for India’s petroleum product exports, including petrol and diesel, valued at $18.4 billion during the fiscal period from April to January 2024.
• In July 2024, India’s petroleum exports to Europe increased by 26%, reaching 266,000 barrels per day (bpd).
• November 2024 marked a record high, with India exporting a total of approximately 400,000 bpd of refined fuels to Europe.
• During October 2024, India exported 238,000 bpd of diesel and 81,000 bpd of aviation fuel to Europe.

Historical Context

• Between 2018-2019 and 2023-2024, the volume of India’s petroleum exports to Europe soared by a staggering 253,788%.
• Over the same period, these exports experienced a remarkable growth of approximately 250%.

Comparison of Export Stats with Other Regions

The table highlights the top petroleum product exporters globally, showcasing their respective shares in total export values.

Types of Petroleum Products Exported from India

India’s petroleum exports are diverse and cater to the specific demands of various European markets. Here’s a breakdown of the key categories:

1. Crude Oil Derivatives

• Indian refineries process crude oil into high-demand products like diesel, gasoline, and naphtha.
• Diesel is a significant export, widely used in Europe for transportation and industrial operations.
• Gasoline serves as a primary fuel for vehicles, especially in countries with stringent fuel standards.
• Naphtha is essential in the petrochemical industry, acting as a base material for plastics and chemicals.
• Kerosen is low-cost liquid fuel primarily used for heating, cooking, and jet engines. Its clean-burning properties make it essential in both residential and industrial applications.
• Fuel Oil is a heavy petroleum product used in power generation and industrial boilers. It serves as a reliable energy source for large-scale heating and machinery operations.
• Napalm is a flammable liquid mixture historically used in incendiary devices. It is known for its intense heat and long-burning properties.
• Polyurethane is a durable, versatile polymer used in products like foam, coatings, and adhesives. Its flexibility and strength make it popular in industries ranging from construction to automotive.

2. Refined Petroleum Products

• India’s state-of-the-art refineries ensure the supply of premium-quality refined products.
• These include aviation turbine fuel (ATF) for the aviation sector, kerosene, and other industrial fuels.
• The high refining capacity allows India to meet strict European specifications, ensuring a competitive edge.

3. Petrochemicals

• India exports a variety of petrochemicals used in industries like plastics, textiles, and chemicals.
• Key exports include polypropylene, polyethylene, and other polymers that are integral to manufacturing and packaging.
• These products support Europe’s industrial backbone, making India a trusted supplier in the region.

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Top European Countries Importing Indian Petroleum Products

India’s petroleum products find strong demand across several European nations, driven by their industrial needs and energy requirements. Here are the key countries leading in imports:

1. Netherlands

• The Netherlands imported a total of 9,740.51 metric tonnes (MT) of petroleum products in 2018-2019, which jumped to a whopping 24.73 million MT in 2023-2024.
• Rotterdam, one of the largest ports in Europe, facilitates efficient distribution of Indian diesel, gasoline, and naphtha across the continent.
• The country’s focus on refining and storage capacities further boosts its role as a primary importer.

2. United Kingdom

• The UK has been a consistent buyer of Indian refined petroleum products, including aviation turbine fuel (ATF) and low-sulfur diesel.
• With its stringent environmental policies, the UK relies on India’s high-quality, eco-compliant fuels.

3. Germany

• Known for its industrial prowess, Germany imports significant quantities of petrochemicals and naphtha for its manufacturing and chemical sectors.
• Diesel also constitutes a large share of imports, supporting the country’s transportation and logistics industries.

4. Italy

• Italy’s energy and manufacturing sectors drive its demand for Indian petroleum products.
• The country imports refined products and petrochemicals essential for plastics, textiles, and industrial applications.

5. Spain

• Spain’s robust infrastructure and growing industrial base make it a prominent importer of Indian gasoline and refined fuels.
• Indian exporters also meet Spain’s demand for naphtha used in petrochemical production.

6. France

• France imports a mix of diesel, gasoline, and petrochemicals to support its diverse industrial and energy needs.
• The country’s focus on sustainable energy has led to an increasing demand for cleaner fuels, where India’s refineries have a competitive edge.

These countries not only import petroleum products but also play a critical role in redistributing them across the region, making them essential partners for Indian exporters. Understanding their specific requirements can help Indian businesses tailor their offerings and strengthen trade relationships.

Logistical Challenges in Transporting Petroleum Products from India to Europe

Transporting petroleum products from India to Europe involves navigating a host of logistical challenges, primarily due to the nature of the cargo, regulatory requirements, and the complexity of global trade routes. Below are some key challenges faced in this process:

1. Safety Concerns

Petroleum products are classified as hazardous materials, requiring specialized equipment and strict safety protocols. Ensuring safe transportation involves:

• Using double-hulled tankers or special containers.
• Adhering to international safety standards such as MARPOL (Marine Pollution) and SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea).
• Conducting thorough inspections to prevent leaks, spills, or accidents.

2. Regulatory Compliance

Different countries in Europe have varied regulations regarding the import of petroleum products. Exporters must ensure:

• Compliance with REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulations.
• Adherence to European Union customs codes and duties.
• Proper documentation, including certificates of origin, quality, and safety compliance.

3. Environmental Challenges

The shipping of petroleum products poses environmental risks, such as potential spills. To mitigate this, exporters must:

• Utilize eco-friendly vessels and equipment.
• Adhere to stringent environmental laws.
• Invest in spill response mechanisms.

4. High Transportation Costs

The cost of shipping petroleum is significantly high due to:

• The specialized nature of the containers and vessels required.
• Fluctuating fuel prices.
• Additional insurance costs for hazardous cargo.

5. Port and Terminal Constraints

Not all ports are equipped to handle petroleum products. Challenges include:

• Limited availability of specialized facilities for loading and unloading.
• Congestion at major European ports.
• Delays caused by stringent inspection and clearance procedures.

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Conclusion

India’s petroleum exports to Europe highlight the nation’s growing strength as a global energy supplier. The remarkable growth in exports reflects India’s ability to meet stringent European standards and leverage its advanced refining capabilities to fulfill diverse industrial needs.

However, Indian exporters must navigate challenges like evolving environmental regulations, trade tariffs, and complex logistics to maintain their competitive edge. By addressing these issues proactively, the Indian petroleum industry can unlock even greater opportunities in the European market.

If you’re an Indian exporter looking to streamline your petroleum trade, Intoglo offers reliable logistics solutions from India to the USA tailored to meet your needs. Our expertise in customs clearance, freight handling, and global trade compliance ensures your shipments reach their destination efficiently and hassle-free. 

Get in touch with experts for free consultation.