Russian oil firms enter Sri Lanka fuel supply race as CPC opens refinery tenders

Two Russian state-linked oil companies have entered Sri Lanka’s fuel procurement process after being registered as suppliers eligible to bid for crude oil contracts for the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC).  

CPC Managing Director Mayura Neththikumarage said M/s. Rosneft Oil Company and JSC Zarubezhneft have been registered, allowing them to compete in upcoming tenders to supply crude oil for the Sapugaskanda refinery.  

He said the next crude oil procurement tender will open on July 21, with both Russian firms eligible to submit bids alongside other registered suppliers.  

The development comes as Sri Lanka continues to diversify its fuel procurement amid global geopolitical tensions and Western sanctions targeting parts of Russia’s energy sector. While the registration allows the companies to compete for contracts, any award will depend on the outcome of the competitive tender process.  

According to the CPC, nearly 15 companies are currently registered to participate in Sri Lanka’s fuel supply tenders.