Taiwan becomes the largest importer of Russian oil in 2025

Oil purchases from Russia increased almost sixfold compared to 2022

Despite sanctions against Russia, Taiwan imported the world's largest amount of Russian oil in 2025. In just half a year, it imported $1.3 billion.

Purchases totalled $1.3bn for the six months

In 2025, Taiwan ranked first in the world in terms of Russian oil imports. This is stated in the joint report Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), ERF and the German organisation Urgewald.

Key data of the report

• In the first half of 2025, the island imported Russian oil by $1.3 billion.

• The average monthly volume of purchases increased by almost 6 times compared to 2022.

• These funds directly strengthen Russia's ability to finance the war against Ukraine.

Taiwan's dilemma

Despite such import volumes, Taiwan has officially joined the sanctions against Russia and declared its support for Ukraine by providing financial assistance for $50 million.
Experts note that the country is «sitting on two chairs» - demonstrating political solidarity with the West, but at the same time remaining critically dependent on energy supplies.

Context.

Russian oil remains one of the main sources of revenue for the Russian budget, despite sanctions and restrictions. Asian countries, including China and India, have significantly increased their purchases, and now Taiwan has joined them.