Volume 6 Issue 36

U.S. Base Oil Output Continues 2023 Lag

Base oil production in the United States fell 20% in June, compared to the same month last year, according to government data released last Thursday. For the first half of this year, production volume declined 11%.

Fuchs Buys Partner Share of Chile J.V.

Independent lubricant manufacturer Fuchs Petrolub bought out its partner in a joint venture distributorship in Chile, the company announced this week. The acquisition is part of the German company’s strategy to strengthen its presence in South America.

Brazil Base Oil Production, Imports Up in July

Brazil’s base oil production jumped 22%, and its base oil imports rose 14% in July, compared to volumes in the same month last year, a government agency reported. Domestic production is running 11% ahead of last year through the first seven months of the year.

From Other Editions of Lube Report

Omsk to Stream Group II, III in September

Chinese Blenders Adapt to Economic Downturn

Moresco Buying Out China Joint Venture Partner

Briefly Noted

Heritage-Crystal Clean, owner of North America’s second-largest rerefinery, announced the expiration of a waiting period called for under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, for the company’s agreement to be bought by private equity firm J.F. Lehman & Co. for $1.2 billion. The expiration on Sept. 1 was a condition to the closing of the transaction, which is expected to occur in the fourth quarter, subject to conditions.