Russia has redirected its naphtha shipments away from Oman as escalating tensions in the Middle East disrupt regional energy production and shipping routes. At least one tanker that had been heading toward Oman has changed course for Singapore, according to shipping data and traders. The move comes as instability linked to Iranian strikes in the Gulf complicates loading and discharge operations.

Since the European Union imposed a full embargo on Russian oil products in February 2023, Russia has relied heavily on buyers in the Middle East and Asia for its naphtha exports. Recent disruptions have pushed Asian refining margins to four-year highs, with some South Korean petrochemical operators considering force majeure or reducing operating rates due to supply concerns.

Russia had previously sent multiple cargoes to offshore transfer points near Oman and to the port of Sohar as other markets became less accessible. However, renewed sanctions from the United States have prompted key buyers such as India and Taiwan to scale back purchases, while exports to Venezuela have fallen to zero. Although Asia faces supply shortages, sanctions and long shipping routes from Russian ports continue to complicate trade flows.