PTC Web Desk: A US-sanctioned oil tanker carrying Iranian crude has changed its destination from India to China midway through its journey, raising uncertainty over what could have been India’s first such import in nearly seven years.

Tanker alters route mid-voyage

According to ship-tracking data, the Aframax tanker Ping Shun, built in 2002 and sanctioned by the United States in 2025, is now heading towards Dongying in China with around 6 lakh barrels of Iranian crude onboard.

Earlier this week, the vessel had listed Vadinar in Gujarat as its destination. However, after moving towards India for a few days, it changed its course and updated its destination to China.

Possible first import since 2019

If the shipment had reached India, it would have marked the country’s first import of Iranian oil since 2019. India had stopped purchasing Iranian crude after stricter US sanctions came into effect.

Payment issues likely behind change

Experts believe the sudden change in route may be linked to payment concerns. It is learnt sellers are now demanding faster payments instead of offering earlier credit periods of 30 to 60 days.

This shift in payment terms may have influenced the decision to redirect the cargo. However, the identities of both the buyer and seller remain unknown.

AIS data not always final

The destination shown on a ship’s Automatic Identification System (AIS) is not always fixed and can be changed during the journey. This means the tanker’s final destination could still change again if conditions improve.

Vadinar refinery and strategic importance

Vadinar port in Gujarat, which was earlier listed as the destination, houses a major refinery operated by Nayara Energy, backed by Russia’s Rosneft.

Experts say such mid-route changes are common in Iranian oil shipments, but they highlight increasing risks related to payments and business partners.

India still open, but cautious

India’s oil ministry has said that any decision on resuming imports from Iran will depend on technical and commercial feasibility.

Before sanctions were tightened in 2018, India was one of the largest buyers of Iranian oil. Iranian crude was popular due to its competitive pricing and suitability for Indian refineries.

Decline in imports after sanctions

Iranian oil once made up about 11.5% of India’s total imports. In 2018, India imported around 518,000 barrels per day from Iran. This dropped to 268,000 barrels per day between January and May 2019 during a limited US waiver period.

Since May 2019, India has not resumed imports and has instead relied on oil supplies from the Middle East, the United States and other countries.

Temporary US waiver adds opportunity

Last month, the US issued a 30-day waiver allowing countries to purchase Iranian oil at sea. This move was aimed at controlling rising oil prices amid tensions involving Iran. The waiver is set to expire on April 19, leaving limited time for countries like India to explore such opportunities.