India LPG Crisis
India LPG Crisis: As India faces a sharp liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) shortage amid disruptions caused by the ongoing West Asia conflict, an unlikely partner from nearly 20,000 kilometres away has stepped forward to help. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz—through which a significant portion of India’s LPG imports pass—has strained the country’s energy supply chain, prompting urgent efforts to find alternative sources.
In this challenging scenario, Argentina has emerged as a key contributor to India’s energy needs. During the first quarter of 2026, Argentina exported around 50,000 tonnes of LPG to India—more than double the 22,000 tonnes shipped in all of 2025. An additional 11,000 tonnes dispatched in early March further highlights Buenos Aires’ commitment to supporting India during the crisis.
This marks a rapid development in bilateral ties, as Argentina had not supplied LPG to India before 2024. The growing partnership reflects a shared willingness to expand cooperation in the energy sector.
Argentina’s Ambassador to India, Mariano Agustin Cousino, underlined the country’s potential as a reliable energy partner. He noted that Argentina possesses vast gas reserves and has been actively engaging with Indian energy firms. Discussions between officials from both sides, including meetings with Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, signal early but promising stages of collaboration.
The envoy also pointed out that the current geopolitical situation could accelerate energy cooperation, aligning with India’s broader strategy to diversify its import sources. India has already been expanding its energy network to over 40 countries, and Argentina is set to become an important addition to that list.
However, the partnership comes with logistical challenges. The distance between Bahia Blanca in Argentina and Dahej port in Gujarat—nearly 20,000 kilometres—makes it one of the longest shipping routes for LPG. This increases transportation costs and introduces risks related to weather and extended delivery times.
Despite these obstacles, the arrangement holds strategic value. For India, it reduces reliance on traditional supply routes, while for Argentina, it opens access to a large and growing energy market.
On the domestic front, India has taken steps to ease the impact of the shortage. The government has increased commercial LPG allocation by 20 percent to support businesses such as hotels and restaurants. At the same time, efforts are underway to expand piped natural gas (PNG) connections, offering households a more stable energy alternative.
As global energy markets remain volatile due to the West Asia conflict, India’s outreach to distant partners like Argentina demonstrates a pragmatic approach to energy security. What began as a crisis response may well evolve into a long-term strategic partnership between the two nations.
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