<h1>Report finds discounted crude imports give much smaller net annual economic benefit than previously estimated amid sanctions impacts</h1> A brokerage report finds the net annual economic benefit to the importing country from discounted crude purchases from a major supplier is far smaller than prior estimates, while noting compliance with existing international law because direct sanctions on crude purchases remain absent. A recent ban by a major economic bloc on refined products derived from that supplier's crude and an internationally imposed price cap affect pricing and logistics; shipping, insurance and reinsurance restrictions raise landed costs. Legal issues center on trade-law compliance, adherence to the price-cap regime, contractual insurance and freight obligations, and potential political pressure rather than clearest violations of sanctions.