The U.S. Gulf market has been thrown into disarray by the chemical fire at IBCs Deer Park facility in Houston and the ensuing clean-up operation. European trade is not that busy, and Asia is largely static too.-by Adrian Brown

The recent departures of three veteran leaders has left a shortage of experience among the North American collection of committees that develop automotive lubricant specifications. Industry insiders say the loss is serious enough to make the already challenging work even more difficult.

ExxonMobil, Shell, Chevron and Phillips 66 notified U.S. customers of upcoming finished lubricant price increases that take effect in early May. Some companies cited recent increases in costs of raw materials and delivery as the reason for the increases.

Brazils government is considering a proposed overhaul of its regulations of chemicals - a step that would be in line with the growing numbers of nations giving greater scrutiny to chemicals and which would create new requirements for lubricant companies and others that use them.