Chinese metalworking fluids supplier Amer is building a production facility in Dongguan, Guangdong province, where the company is headquartered. With an investment of about ¥130 million, the plant will make not only metalworking fluids, lubes and greases, but also parts such as grinding wheels and crucibles.

South Korea exported a larger volume of base oils and more than doubled its declared export value in September, compared to the same month last year. The export value was a record high, reflecting the impact of higher base oil prices.

The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare issued a report last month flagging concerns about seven chemicals, including two that are used by the lubricants industry: diethanolamine and tri-o-cresyl phosphate. The report included updated guidelines for businesses using the chemicals – especially small and medium-sized enterprises.