Global Energy Shift: Australia and Canada Offer Gas to India as Strait of Hormuz Crisis Raises Concerns

Rising tensions in the Middle East and the potential disruption of the Strait of Hormuz have prompted several countries, including Australia and Canada, to offer additional gas supplies to India. The offers come as New Delhi continues to strengthen its energy security by expanding supply sources.

According to official sources, India remains confident that its diversified energy strategy will protect the country from any major supply disruption even if the vital shipping route faces temporary closure.

Diversified import routes reduce risk

The Strait of Hormuz has long been a crucial corridor for global oil shipments. However, officials pointed out that only about 40 percent of India’s crude imports pass through the strait, while the remaining 60 percent arrive via alternative routes that remain unaffected.

India currently sources crude oil from a wide range of regions including Russia, West Africa, the Americas, Central Asia, and other Middle Eastern routes outside the Gulf, ensuring supply stability even during geopolitical crises.

New gas supply offers from global partners

Amid the uncertainty in the Gulf region, Australia, Canada, and other energy-producing nations have expressed willingness to increase gas exports to India. New Delhi is evaluating these offers as part of its broader plan to strengthen long-term energy security.

India has also recently signed new supply arrangements with partners such as the United States and the United Arab Emirates, ensuring stable energy availability despite global tensions.

India expands its energy diplomacy

Over the past decade, India has significantly expanded its energy partnerships. Officials said the country has increased its crude oil supplier base from 27 countries to around 40 nations across six continents.

This shift has reduced dependence on any single supply route or region, allowing India to adjust sourcing strategies whenever disruptions occur.

US waiver for Russian oil purchases

Meanwhile, the United States Treasury Department recently announced a 30-day waiver that allows Indian refiners to continue purchasing Russian oil. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described India as an essential partner in maintaining stability in global energy markets.

Officials said India has complied with all G7 price-cap regulations since they were introduced and continues to conduct transactions through legally compliant channels.

Stable fuel prices in India

Despite volatility in global oil markets, officials noted that fuel prices in India have remained relatively stable. Petrol prices have increased by less than one percent in India, compared with 55 percent in Pakistan, 22 percent in Germany, 19 percent in France, and over 11 percent in the United States during the same period.

Iran signals diplomatic approach

Amid the regional crisis, Iran’s president issued an apology to neighbouring countries affected by recent attacks, stating that Tehran prefers diplomatic solutions to regional tensions.

While rejecting calls from US President Donald Trump for unconditional surrender, the Iranian leader emphasised that disputes should be resolved through dialogue rather than military confrontation.

As the geopolitical situation evolves, India continues to maintain close coordination with global energy suppliers and international organisations such as the International Energy Agency (IEA) and OPEC to ensure uninterrupted energy supplies.