Higher prices and Middle East supply disruptions cut India’s fuel consumption last month, official data show.
India’s total fuel demand fell 6.5% year-over-year in May, driven by a 20% drop in liquefied petroleum gas sales. Gasoline consumption declined 6.1%, while diesel use rose 1.6%.
The decline follows supply disruptions from the Middle East due to regional conflicts, pushing fuel prices higher. April’s gasoline demand had already softened, signaling broader weakness in consumption.
Official data from the oil ministry confirmed the contraction, highlighting pressure on household and industrial fuel usage.