Base Oil Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Group I, Group II, Group III, Group IV, and Others) By Application (Engine Oils, Gear Oils, Metalworking Fluids, General Industrial Oils, Greases, Process Oils, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

The global base oil market size was valued at USD 41.81 billion in 2023. The market is projected to grow from USD 42.95 billion in 2024 to USD 54.79 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.1% during the forecast period.

Base oil is an essential part of the global petroleum industry, which plays a crucial role in the production of various lubricants and oils. It is divided into different groups based on its refining process and properties, ranging from Group I to Group V. The market dynamics of material are influenced by factors such as technological advancements, regulatory standards, and the demand for higher-quality lubricants.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the market, causing disruptions in supply, demand, and production processes. The initial decrease in industrial and transportation activities led to reduced demand for lubricants, affecting base stock production. Despite these challenges, the industry is adapting, with a growing focus on high-quality lubricants and opportunities arising from the transition to electric vehicles.

Base Oil Market Trends

Growth in Industrial Activity to Support Market Growth 

The surge in demand for base stock can be directly attributed to the overall growth in industrial activity. As industries expand and new manufacturing facilities are established, the need for lubricants increases, driving up the product demand. In addition, this growth in industrial activity is not confined to a single sector but is widespread, encompassing manufacturing, automotive, construction, and several other key industries. The expansion of these sectors leads to an increased use of machinery and equipment, all of which require regular lubrication to maintain efficiency and prolong their operational life.

The global market trends further compound the product demand for base oils. With emerging economies ramping up their industrial sectors and developed countries focusing on maintaining their manufacturing progress, the global demand for lubricants, and consequently the product, is expected to continue its upward trajectory.

Base Oil Market Growth Factors

Growing Demand in the Automotive Industry is Fostering Market Growth

The automotive industry's growth in emerging markets has significantly increased the demand for base oil. As these markets develop, the need for vehicles and, subsequently, demand is expected to rise. In addition, the regular maintenance and servicing of vehicles impact product demand, as vehicles require oil changes at regular intervals. Due to the push for more environmentally friendly options and the continuation of advancement of the industry with technological improvements, the market is expected to adapt and grow accordingly. Manufacturers and suppliers of base stocks may need to innovate and expand their product offerings to meet the changing demands of the automotive sector.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

Volatility in Crude Oil Prices May Pose a Challenge to Market Growth

The volatility in the crude oil market has the potential to create challenges for the demand for material. Base oil is a fundamental component in the production of lubricants and is derived from the refining of crude oil. Fluctuations in crude oil prices can directly impact the cost and availability of this essential product, leading to potential disruptions in its demand. Manufacturers and consumers may be compelled to explore alternative sources or formulations to counteract the cost implications and supply chain uncertainties associated with the volatility of crude oil prices, further complicating the demand landscape for base stock.

Base Oil Market Segmentation Analysis

By Type Analysis

Group II Segment Holds a Dominant Share Due to its Multitude of Applications

By type, the market is segmented into Group I, Group II, Group III, Group IV, and others.

The Group II segment holds a dominant share of the market as it offers better performance in terms of volatility, flashpoints, and viscosity index compared to the Group I base oil type. These characteristics make them suitable for use in a wide range of lubricant products, including engine oils, transmission fluids, and industrial lubricants. In addition, the Group II type is more suitable for use in high-temperature applications because of its improved oxidative stability. The move toward Group II type by many lubricant manufacturers is driven by the need for products that meet stricter environmental regulations and offer enhanced performance. As the automotive and industrial sectors continue to evolve, the demand for higher-quality oils, such as those in Group II, is expected to grow, reflecting ongoing advancements in lubrication technology.

Regional market dynamics also influence the considerable growth for Group III base stocks. For example, in the Asia Pacific, rapid industrialization and the increasing number of vehicles on the road have led to a significant rise in demand. Meanwhile, in North America and Europe, stringent environmental regulations are pushing lubricant manufacturers to opt higher-quality base stocks such as Group III.

By Application Analysis

Engine Oils Segment Held a Major Share Driven by its Criticality in Automotive and Industrial Machinery Maintenance

In terms of application, the market is classified into engine oils, gear oils, metalworking fluids, general industrial oils, greases, process oils, and others.

The engine oils segment accounted for a dominant base oil market share in 2023. Engine oils play a crucial role in the functioning and longevity of engines. They are primarily derived from base oil, which is then enhanced with various additives to meet specific performance requirements. Furthermore, the application of engine oils extends beyond mere lubrication. They also serve to cool engine parts, protect against corrosion, improve sealing, and clean the engine from sludge and varnish. The demand for base stock, which is the foundational component of engine oils, is significantly influenced by the automotive and industrial sectors.

Geal oil segment is set to account for prominent growth rate during the forecast period. The application of gear oil formulated from base stock is a critical aspect of maintaining the operational efficiency and longevity of gear systems. By selecting the appropriate oil and viscosity and by regularly monitoring and maintaining the gear oil, machinery operators can ensure optimal performance and protection of their equipment.

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

Regionally, the market is segregated into Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, the Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.

The Asia Pacific dominated the market in 2023, which can be primarily attributed to the engine oils & gear oils demand. China takes the lead in terms of manufacturing owing to its demand for engine oils & gears. This trend is expected to propel the market's growth in the region further. In addition, the development of the Indian market is driven by the rising consumption by automobile industries, linked to the surging disposable income levels and rising population.

The North America base oil market is projected to grow significantly in the coming years. The U.S. holds a prominent position in the North American market, contributing to a substantial portion of the region's total market share. The regional market is characterized by a rising demand for Group II and Group III types, which, in turn, drives the consumption of materials in the region.

The European market is poised to witness growth in the coming years, attributable to the widespread application of the product across several industries, including automotive and industrial. Notably, Germany, France, and Italy are the major contributors to the market growth in Europe.

Several factors, including economic growth, industrial expansion, and automotive sales, influence the market growth in Latin America. The demand for these products is exceptionally high in countries such as Mexico, Argentina, and Brazil, which are among the region's most prominent markets for product growth.

The Middle East & Africa base oil market is slated to observe significant growth during the forecast period. This expansion is owing to the rising oil & gas exploration activities in the region, which have led to a surge in demand for crude oil for purification. The Middle East has been investing in state-of-the-art refining and petrochemical facilities to meet both domestic and international demand. Saudi Arabia, for instance, is a leading player in the product market, leveraging its vast crude oil resources to produce high-grade base products. The UAE and Iran are also known for their production capabilities. As a result, the region is set to witness constant base oil market growth during the forecast period.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Key Players Focus on Technology Development and Capacity Expansion Strategies to Maintain Their Dominance 

In terms of the competitive scenario, the market depicts a consolidated and competitive structure. Global key market players invested in new and enhanced technologies to improved output of the product. Superior operational efficiency and novel technology development are the strategies used by market leaders for their growth. In addition, market players are focusing on acquisition and expansion activities to increase their share.

List of Top Base Oil Companies :

• Chevron Corporation (U.S.)


• Shell plc (U.K.)


• Saudi Aramco Base Oil Company - Luberef (Saudi Arabia)


• Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) (UAE)


• Bahrain Petroleum Company (BAPCO) (Bahrain)


• Sepahan Oil Company (Iran)


• GS Caltex Corporation (South Korea)


• PETRONAS Lubricants International (Malaysia)


• Orlen S.A. (Poland)


• Exxon Mobil Corporation (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• January 2024 – Shell Deutschland GmbH decided to convert the Wesseling site's hydrocracker into a unit for producing Group III base stock. These oils are used in high-quality lubricants, including engine oils and transmission fluids. The hydrocracker converts heavy, low-quality hydrocarbons into lighter, high-quality products through a high-pressure, high-temperature reaction with hydrogen in the presence of a catalyst.


• October 2023 – Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd. partnered with Saudi Aramco Base Oil Company -Luberef, and signed an MOU regarding the supply of refined lubricant base oil "Gr.III." This agreement aims to construct a new Gr.III manufacturing facility in Saudi Arabia to secure long-term stable procurement of Gr.III base stock.


• October 2023 – Gulf Oil Lubricants India, a Hinduja Group company, unveiled the S-OIL SEVEN range through strategic collaboration. The comprehensive product lineup features a variety of Passenger Car Gasoline Engine oil variants and a Passenger Car Diesel Engine Oil variant. The S-OIL SEVEN range encompasses a spectrum of fully synthetic, semi-synthetic, and premium lubricants, harnessing attributes such as a very high viscosity index within the Group II/III class base stock.


• February 2023 – PKN Orlen S.A. planned to invest USD 312 million to complete the establishment of its API Group II and III base stock plant in Gdansk, Poland. The company has further plans to enhance safety at a terminal and improve supply security.


• June 2019 – Chevron Products Company, a division of Chevron U.S.A. Inc., will upgrade its base stock qualities and produce Group II+ type at its Richmond and Pascagoula refineries. It will also manufacture NEXBASE Group III Base type at its Richmond Refinery through an agreement with a subsidiary of Neste Corporation. Both companies will independently market their base stock slates.

REPORT COVERAGE

The market report provides a detailed analysis of the market and focuses on key aspects such as leading companies, types, and applications. Besides this, it offers insights into the market trends and highlights key industry developments. In addition to the aforementioned factors, the report encompasses several factors that have contributed to the growth of the market over recent years.

Report Scope & Segmentation