Gotrade News - Indonesia's Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirmed that crude oil shipments from Russia will begin in April 2026. The announcement comes amid concerns over potential US sanctions as Washington has not extended relaxation of restrictions on Russian oil trade.
Key Takeaways:
- Russian crude oil delivery to Indonesia starts April 2026 via G2G and B2B channels
- Energy expert says the decision is urgent as global competition for crude supply intensifies after Hormuz closure
- Senior oil practitioner recommends Prabowo-Trump dialogue to mitigate sanctions risk
"For crude oil, it can probably be shipped this month, God willing," Bahlil said at the Ministry office on Friday (Apr 17). The agreement follows bilateral meetings between President Prabowo Subianto and President Vladimir Putin.
Procurement will operate through government-to-government and business-to-business channels. LPG imports still require two to three additional negotiation stages before shipments can begin.
According to BloombergTechnoz, Yayan Satyakti, an energy expert from Padjadjaran University, called the import decision critical. Global competition for crude supply has intensified following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
"Delaying the decision further will cause supply uncertainty and make oil prices difficult to predict," Satyakti said. He described the situation as a first-come-first-served race amid Middle Eastern supply disruptions.
US Sanctions Risk
According to BloombergTechnoz, Hadi Ismoyo, a senior oil and gas industry practitioner, acknowledged that importing Russian crude is commercially advantageous. However, the move carries significant political risk related to Washington's sanctions policy.
"Based on past experience, if sanctions are reimposed, the consequences are severe," Hadi warned. He recommended that President Prabowo hold direct talks with President Trump to identify which commodities can be safely traded.
Indonesia is open to expanding collaboration with Russia including crude storage facilities and nuclear exploration. Supply diversification has become critical amid global geopolitical uncertainty affecting energy supply chains.
Sources:
- Kompas, Bahlil Sebut Minyak Rusia Mulai Dikirim ke RI Bulan Ini, 2026
- BloombergTechnoz, RI Disarankan Tetap Beli Minyak Rusia, Terlepas dari Sikap AS, 2026
- BloombergTechnoz, Dilema RI Beli Minyak Rusia: Murah, tetapi Rawan Sanksi AS Lagi, 2026
