📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / United States Department of the Treasury
Business
US Imposes Up to 100% Tariffs on Russian Oil, Threatening India and China
✍️ India Today
🗓 20 Sep 2026, 07:31 AM
👁 8
The United States has announced a sanctions law that could levy tariffs of up to 100% on Russian crude, directly affecting its biggest Asian buyers, India and China.
Washington has introduced a new sanctions framework that authorises the imposition of tariffs as high as 100% on oil exported from Russia. The measure is aimed at curbing Moscow's revenue streams and pressuring its key customers in Asia.
According to the announcement, India and China – the two largest Asian importers of Russian crude – could see the full tariff rate applied to future shipments. The move follows a series of coordinated Western actions targeting Russia’s energy sector after its invasion of Ukraine.
Indian officials have indicated that the potential tariffs could reshape the country's oil import strategy, prompting a search for alternative suppliers. Meanwhile, Chinese authorities are expected to assess the impact on their own energy security plans.
The United States has warned that the tariff regime will be enforced swiftly once the law is enacted, signalling a hardening stance in the ongoing geopolitical standoff.
Analysts note that while the tariffs aim to diminish Russia’s earnings, they also risk higher global oil prices and could strain trade relations with the affected Asian economies.
According to the announcement, India and China – the two largest Asian importers of Russian crude – could see the full tariff rate applied to future shipments. The move follows a series of coordinated Western actions targeting Russia’s energy sector after its invasion of Ukraine.
Indian officials have indicated that the potential tariffs could reshape the country's oil import strategy, prompting a search for alternative suppliers. Meanwhile, Chinese authorities are expected to assess the impact on their own energy security plans.
The United States has warned that the tariff regime will be enforced swiftly once the law is enacted, signalling a hardening stance in the ongoing geopolitical standoff.
Analysts note that while the tariffs aim to diminish Russia’s earnings, they also risk higher global oil prices and could strain trade relations with the affected Asian economies.