Paris, June 4 -- India is exploring increased imports of American shale gas, liquefied natural gas, and crude oil to diversify its energy sources and leverage competitive US pricing, a senior official said as both countries prepare for fresh bilateral trade negotiations.

The strategy comes as India seeks to balance its growing trade surplus with the United States while capitalising on America's energy abundance and relatively lower prices compared to traditional suppliers.

"There are several things we can buy from the US - for example, shale gas, LNG, crude oil," said the official, who requested anonymity. "The more diversified our sources, the greater the benefit for us. Prices are also low in the US."

The energy diversification plan ...