Japan’s finished lubricants consumption surged by 34%, lubricants production jumped 32%, and lubricants exports increased 20% in September, according to data released Monday by the Japan Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Meanwhile, the imported lubricants volume tumbled to its lowest mark since mid-2020.

Castrol last month introduced 100% recycled plastic bottles in India, a step that it called important in its efforts to become more sustainable by reducing plastic waste. Castrol, a unit of United Kingdom-based BP, said it currently is using bottles made solely from post-consumer plastic resins only in India.

The November issue delves into South America’s base oils and finished lubricants markets. Learn about the privatization of Brazil’s base oil production and the evolution of motorcycle oils in the region. Plus, discover how waste oil rerefining is gaining momentum as well as how base stock selection can influence greater lubricant sustainability.

Castrol India Ltd. reported slightly higher profits and sales for the quarter ending Sept. 30, saying it managed pricing and costs to protect margins impacted by rising base oil and additives costs that were driven by extreme inflation and other factors.