Volume 6 Issue 20

SSY Base Oil Shipping Report

A big question mark hangs over the U.S. markets and the potential impact on shipping following the breakdown of trade talks with China. European and Asian markets are essentially unchanged.-by Adrian Brown

Aussie Lube Industry Shrinks

The Australian lubricant industry is in a sustained decline, as local producers face increasing competition from importers and tougher conditions in export markets, according to an annual market analysis by market research group IBISWorld.

Clouds Loom for Chinese MWF Suppliers

Chinese metalworking fluid suppliers will face many challenges in the coming years, including stricter health and safety laws, weak research and development capability and a declining economy, industry insiders said at an industry conference held in Shanghai May 7.

Japanese Suppliers Post Mixed Results

Japanese lubricant companies Idemitsu Showa Shell and Yushiro Chemical Industry each reported increased sales volumes for their 2018 fiscal year, while the countrys largest lubricant producer, JXTG Holdings, posted a decline. Indias Maximus International Ltd. reported an increase in net profit.

From Other Editions of Lube Report

Briefly Noted

The lubricants business division of Taiwanese state-owned petroleum company CPC Corp. signed a strategic cooperation agreement with key base oil and additive suppliers during the divisions 20th anniversary celebration event on March 19 in Kaohsiung, the company announced on May 6.