Opening Options for Oil Imports from Russia, Bahlil: The Important Thing is Availability

The government has affirmed that it is currently open to oil import options from any country, including Russia. This is to guarantee the security of petroleum fuel (BBM) supplies in Indonesia.

The statement was delivered by the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Bahlil Lahadalia, in response to questions about the offer to purchase oil from Russia conveyed by the Russian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sergei Tolchenov.

“If it happens (imports from Russia), I will let you know,” Bahlil said at the Ministry of ESDM office in Jakarta on Monday, 6 April 2026.

Bahlil conveyed that in the current global energy crisis, Indonesia is open to oil import options from any country. The government must ensure the availability of BBM for its people.

“So, we shouldn’t be picky now. From any country (we can import), the important thing is that it’s available,” Bahlil stated.

Currently, he continued, Indonesia is competing with other countries in purchasing oil. He explained that companies that have already tendered could be overtaken by other companies buying oil at higher prices.

This situation shows that oil-selling companies can sell to buyers who bid higher prices. “So, we are now creating several alternatives. The important thing for us, for the government, is to ensure that BBM in Indonesia remains available,” Bahlil said.

Previously reported, Russian Ambassador to Indonesia Sergei Tolchenov stated that Moscow is opening opportunities for Pertamina to buy oil from his country amid rising global oil prices due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

“Our President has repeatedly stated, especially to friendly countries, that we are ready to cooperate in the oil and gas sector if they need something,” Ambassador Tolchenov said when met in Tanjung Priok, Jakarta, on Tuesday (31/3).

Tolchenov conveyed that as an ambassador, he has not yet received direct requests from Pertamina or the Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.

However, he stated that the Russian Embassy is open to discussing oil purchases from Russia. “So, please contact us, convey your needs, and we will discuss how it can be realised,” he added.