Russia turns to Oman’s coasts for ship-to-ship oil transfer

Ship-to-ship transfers of Russian oil bound for India are increasing off the coast of Oman, as the US intensifies scrutiny of these transactions, according to Bloomberg.

The tanker New Discovery recently transferred its Russian crude near the port of Sohar, diverting from its original route to India.

Caroline Bezengi received the oil but hasn’t indicated a destination. Such transfers are commonly used to obscure the oil’s origin and meet port regulations. Oman is becoming a preferred location for these transfers, with several recent instances.

India, a significant buyer of discounted Russian oil, faces disruptions due to stricter US sanctions enforcement. Refiners are now refusing oil carried on certain tankers.

Sohar is a key site for ship-to-ship transfers, potentially offering a solution for Russian oil deliveries to India amidst compliance concerns.