Japan’s consumption of finished lubricants jumped 30% and production rose 15% in October, while lubricant imports fell 16%, compared to the same month last year, accosting to data released Nov. 30 by the Japan Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Castrol India Ltd. announced on Nov. 25 an investment of up to Rs 487.5 crore (Rs 4.9 billion or U.S. $60 million) in ki Mobility Solutions, a leading Indian player in the independent automobile aftermarket business, to create a co-branded service and maintenance network.

Hi-Tech Lubricants Ltd. reported a steep net loss and a 27% decrease in lubricant sales for the quarter ended Sept. 30, citing the impacts of supply chain and exchange rate issues, while Chevron Lubricants Lanka Plc and Lanka IOC posted strong increases in profits and sales amidst news reports of an easing of the country’s food and fuel shortages.