United States exports of automotive, diesel and marine engine oils rose 14% by value in 2023, while imports of those materials declined 28%, according to data tracked by the U.S. International Trade Commission.
The federal agency advises the federal government’s legislative and executive branches on trade matters.
The country exported $2.5 billion in automotive, diesel and marine engine lubricating oils last year, compared to $2.2 billion in 2022. The largest portion went to Mexico – $988.4 million – while Canada received $317 million and Brazil, $128.5 million. Together the countries accounted for 58% of the value of such exports.
The overall value of imports of those categories of products was $1.3 billion – down from $1.8 billion.
The commission also tracks imports and exports of automotive gear oil. Exports of that category rose slightly to $218.6 million last year, compared to $214.5 million in 2022. The largest markets again were Mexico and Canada, receiving $92.1 million and $28.3 million, respectively.
Automotive gear oil imports rose 7% to $90.9 million. The dominant country sources were Canada, at $39.8 million in value, and Germany, at $39.4 million.