China’s base oil imports totaled 1.46894 million metric tons in 2025, a decline of 4.4% from the previous year, according to data from the General Administration of Customs. The figures underscore a gradual contraction in overseas purchases as domestic supply expands and market dynamics shift.
China is the world’s largest base oil consumer, driven by its automotive, industrial and manufacturing sectors. Demand has shifted in recent years from API Group I toward higher-quality Group II and Group III grades as emissions standards tighten and engine technology advances.
While overall lubricant demand growth has moderated alongside the broader economy, structural upgrading continues. Domestic refinery expansions have reduced reliance on imports, reshaping trade flows and intensifying competition among regional suppliers.
South Korea, Singapore, Qatar and Taiwan were the leading external suppliers during the year. Imported volumes were concentrated in Group II and Group III base oils, grades widely used in higher-performance lubricant formulations.
Market researchers expect the downward trend to persist into 2026. Zibo, Shandong-based research firm Sci99 projects total imports will fall to about 1.4 million metric tons next year, representing an additional decline of roughly 4.7% from 2025 levels.