Sri Lanka turns to Russia for fuel amid impact of Middle East conflict

Golden Ten Data, March 30—Due to restricted oil supply and soaring prices caused by the Middle East war, which has forced buyers to seek alternative sources, the Sri Lanka Petroleum Corporation (Ceypetco) is in negotiations with Russian oil companies to import petroleum products. As the only refinery operator in this strategically located Indian Ocean nation, Ceypetco's Managing Director stated that, as Russian crude oil is not compatible with their facilities, the company is currently discussing the import of Russian gasoline and diesel. Sri Lanka usually sources most of its crude oil from the United Arab Emirates. Affected by the war, supplies from the region have decreased as Iran has blocked most tankers from passing through the Strait of Hormuz, though they have not been completely cut off. In addition, refined oil products are imported from India and Singapore.