GLOBAL — Motor Oil Supply Faces New Chemical Feedstock Pressure

The global lubricant industry is facing increasing pressure from shortages of high-quality Group III base oils, following disruptions to Middle Eastern production and shipping. Prices for some refined base oils have reportedly risen sharply, while major automotive manufacturers are looking for alternative suppliers and, in some cases, reformulating lubricants. The disruption demonstrates how geopolitical conflicts can quickly spread through chemical and petrochemical supply chains, affecting manufacturers, distributors and end users far beyond the original production region.