India’s shipping ministry has granted special permission for four vessels carrying crude oil, including Iranian oil tankers, to berth at the western port of Sikka. The decision was made following a request linked to Reliance Industries, according to industry sources.
The move comes at a time when global oil supply chains are under pressure. India, the world’s third-largest oil importer, has not imported oil from Iran since May 2019 due to US sanctions pressure. However, recent temporary easing of restrictions has reopened limited supply options.
Officials confirmed that the approval allows Iranian oil tankers to dock under a one-time exemption. The vessels include two Iranian-flagged supertankers along with two other sanctioned ships operating under different flags. Each vessel is over 20 years old and capable of carrying up to two million barrels of crude oil.
The exemption was reportedly granted due to emergency supply concerns and disruptions linked to regional tensions in key shipping routes. Industry sources noted that the situation around the Strait of Hormuz has increased logistical uncertainty in global energy markets.
The four approved Iranian oil tankers include Felicity and Hedy, both Iran-flagged VLCCs, along with Kaviz and Lenore. Some of these vessels were recently observed near Iran’s Chabahar port and other loading zones, based on satellite tracking data.
Despite approval, sources suggest that actual imports remain uncertain. Refiners are expected to ensure full compliance with international sanctions and domestic regulations before processing any shipments. Reliance Industries has not issued a formal comment on the matter.
India’s regulations typically require older vessels, including Iranian oil tankers, to meet strict seaworthiness standards. These include certification from recognized international classification bodies or approval from India’s maritime authority.
The decision highlights India’s balancing act between energy security and international compliance. While global oil prices remain sensitive, authorities are exploring limited sourcing options to stabilize supply.
Experts say the temporary approval for Iranian oil tankers reflects growing pressure on import-dependent economies. However, long-term trade decisions will still depend on sanctions developments and geopolitical stability in the region.
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