Finished lubricants production in Japan decreased 5%, while domestic sales rose 4% in August, according to data released today by a government agency.
The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry reported that finished lubricants production declined to 187,265 kiloliters (168,000 metric tons) in August, compared to 199,898 kL in the same month last year. The volume was the second lowest for a month this year, ahead of 169,291 kL in February, and ended a streak of five consecutive months in which production topped 200,000 kL.
Domestic lubricant sales reached 129,043 kL, compared to 123,593 kL. However, the domestic sales were the lowest since 111,559 kL in February.
The volume of lubricant exports in August increased 1% to 56,944 kL. That put it in the middle of the pack for this year, which peaked at 67,730 kL in March and had its valley of 45,320 kL in June.
Lubricant imports volume plummeted 22% to 8,539 kL, from 14,449 kL. That was the second lowest imports volume in a month this year, ahead of 6,048 kL in July.
Grease production in Japan decreased 2% to 4,448 kL in August, while domestic sales declined 6% to 3,630 kL.
Imports of grease fell 45% to 120 kL, compared to 219 kL, while exports of grease increased 23% to 59 kL.