India and Mauritius sign long-term petroleum supply agreement

energy security petroleum supply agreement Indian Oil Corporation biofuels cooperation Indian Ocean region

India and Mauritius have signed a five-year strategic energy agreement to ensure long-term fuel security for the island nation. Under the pact, the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) will supply Mauritius’ entire import requirement of petrol, diesel, and aviation turbine fuel (ATF).

The agreement, finalized during a visit by Indian Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, aims to shield Mauritius from global price volatility and supply disruptions, particularly those stemming from conflicts in West Asia. This marks the first long-term supply deal concluded by an Indian state-run oil company outside of South Asia.

Beyond conventional petroleum, the two nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen cooperation in the oil and gas sectors, including capacity building and biofuels. Discussions included sharing expertise in ethanol blending and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Additionally, a USD 25 million bunker fuel storage facility has been completed in Mer Rouge to support Mauritius’ ambitions as a strategic bunkering hub in the Indian Ocean.