India's crude imports hit a 2026 high of 5.26 million barrels per day in September

The Economic Times reports India's crude imports reached 5.26 million barrels per day in September, their highest level in 2026, as Gulf supplies recovered. Iraq ranked second among suppliers behind Russia. Citing Kpler, the paper says six Gulf countries accounted for 39% of September imports. It describes tankers crossing the Strait of Hormuz with tracking transponders off before transferring cargo in UAE and Omani waters, despite reported attacks on vessels.