Exports of finished lubricants produced in the United States fell for the second month in a row in June after reaching their highest level of 2026 in April, according to U.S. Census Bureau trade data. Shipments totaled 3.01 million barrels in June, down 9.3% from May and 17.6% from April.
The June figure closed a volatile first half of the year. Domestic exports fell to 2.44 million barrels in February before rising to 3.35 million in March and 3.65 million in April. May shipments totaled 3.32 million barrels. The six-month total reached 18.84 million barrels, averaging 3.14 million barrels per month.
June exports were therefore lower than the spring peak but remained close to the levels seen at the start of the year. January shipments totaled 3.08 million barrels, putting June just 2.2% below the year’s opening month.
The figures are based on 10 U.S. Schedule B codes covering lubricating oils, greases and white mineral oils.
Automotive, diesel and marine engine lubricating oils accounted for 513,025 barrels. Turbine lubricating oils 73,383 barrels, while automotive gear oils totaled 44,630 barrels. The remaining categories included aviation engine oils, steam cylinder oils, quenching and cutting oils, lubricating greases and white mineral oils.