India competes with China for Russian ESPO oil in April, causing prices to rise.

Competition from India has reduced discounts for April-loading ESPO shipments to northern China to around $6.80 per barrel against June ICE Brent DES basis.

Down from $8.50 per barrel last month for March-loading oil, according to three trading sources.

Indian refiners often acquire Russian oil delivered, with the supplier managing insurance, freight, and shipping.