The availability of Russian base oils for export loading has improved after a restriction in July and August, as refineries have begun to run at full-scale and the attractiveness of export sales has improved due to the weaker Russian ruble, according to Legion Oil & Gas LLC estimates.
The Russian currency dropped by 8.6% between July 30th and August 28th, making domestic sales less competitive against export loadings. This could support export sales of finished lubes as well.
Rosneft and Naftan underwent maintenance at their base oils units during the summer, which limited supplies from June to August. Both producers offered healthy volumes for September loadings. Gazpromneft and Lukoil also have base oils available for export in September, according to market participants. Tatneft had maintenance planned for September but decided to postpone it, according to producers of export Group III 4 cSt and Group II 2.5 cSt.
In September, maintenance will only take place at one base oils unit in Russia: The Angarsk refinery, which mostly supplies the Chinese market via railroad, will have turnaround. The refinery exports up to 10,000 tons per month.
Demand Improves After The Holiday Season
The demand for base oils has improved after religious holidays in Muslim countries have been completed. The European market is also improving for September-October orders after the traditional slow-down during the summer months.
Feedstock prices began to rise in the second half of August after dipping in July and the first two weeks of August. The growing crude oil price supports strong base oils prices. The Brent price increased by 5USD per barrel or 7% between August 15th and 28th, and reached 75,78 USD/bl.
Russian base oils are supplied to Turkey, Europe, Nigeria, Middle East, and other markets.
Legion Oil & Gas LLC is a trading firm specialized in base oils, waxes, petroleum coke, and bitumen trading. The company offers a cost-effective solution for deliveries from Russia, Belarus, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Europe. Legion Oil & Gas LLC is experienced in flexi-tanks exports. For any enquiries, feel free to contact us via our website.
