Base oil exports from the United States fell 6% in 2022, while imports rose by the same amount, according to U.S. Energy Information data. In December, the volume of base oil that the country exported dropped 41%, while the volume of base oil imported rose 30%, compared to the same month in 2021.

American lubricant distributor RelaDyne has expanded its yearslong buying spree beyond its home borders, announcing March 8 that it acquired Grupo Lucalza, which carries lubes and fuels in several Latin American countries. The lubricant distribution market in the United States has undergone a great deal of consolidation the past two decades, but few of the acquisitions and mergers have crossed the nation’s borders.

The March issue delves into the buzz-worthy introduction of ILSAC GF-7. Find out when it will make its debut and how it will differ from GF-6. Plus, discover how the war in Ukraine has affected the Russian lubricants market, and learn about the most important attributes that a fluid testing lab should possess.

Calumet Specialty Products Partners L.P. trimmed its losses while increasing sales revenue for the quarter ending Dec. 31 and for the full year 2022. Sales for its performance brands segment – which includes packaged and synthetic specialty products – were up 26% in the fourth quarter.