India's view of the world · A factual referenceLast updated 12 May 2026 · Edition 04
COUNTRY RELATIONSHIP · BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
India & Brunei Darussalam
ASEAN MEMBERACT EAST POLICYENERGY PARTNERCOMMONWEALTH PARTNER
India and Brunei Darussalam established diplomatic relations upon Brunei's independence in 1984 and have maintained cordial ties underpinned by Commonwealth membership, ASEAN engagement under India's Act East Policy, and energy trade. Brunei, one of the world's wealthiest nations per capita due to its oil and gas reserves, is a modest but consistent source of LNG and crude oil imports for India. The small Indian diaspora of around eight thousand — comprising professionals in healthcare, engineering, and the oil sector — bridges the two societies. India's Act East Policy has elevated engagement with all ASEAN members including Brunei, with defence and maritime cooperation gaining importance.
COOPERATION AREAS
Where India and Brunei Darussalam actually work together
4 active areas of cooperation, as of July 2026. Click any card for the full brief.
TRADE & INVESTMENT
By the numbers
Estimates based on UN Comtrade and OEC bilateral data, calendar year 2023. Energy imports dominate India's import figures from Brunei.
$400m
Total bilateral trade in goods
$100m
India exports to country
$300m
India imports from country
Trade trajectory · USD bn
$0.4bnin 2023 · click a bar to compare years
TOP TRADED ITEMS
AGREEMENTS & MILESTONES
The relationship since 1984, in 6 dates
CURRENT STATE
Where things stand, 2026
The India-Brunei relationship entered a new phase with PM Modi's September 2024 visit — the first by a sitting Indian Prime Minister. Defence and maritime cooperation has been upgraded, energy trade continues, and the Indian diaspora remains an active bilateral bridge. Brunei's economic diversification beyond hydrocarbons creates opportunities for Indian IT services, healthcare investment, and education partnerships. India's Indo-Pacific strategy and Act East Policy give Brunei increasing strategic relevance beyond its modest size.
SIGNALS TO WATCH
On track / positive momentum
In progress / worth watching
Stalled or facing headwinds
Not yet started / unclear
QUICK FACTS
CapitalBandar Seri Begawan
Population450,000
RegionSoutheast Asia
Diplomatic tiesSince 1984
Indian diaspora~8,000
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