European rush for re-refined base oils as Middle east supply crunch bites

The European market for re-refined base oils (RRBO) is experiencing a surge in demand as blenders adjust their formulations due to a tight supply of Group I material following the Middle East conflict. Re-refiners are expected to gain market share in the coming years, with Avista, a major RRBO producer, already on the rise. The shortage of virgin base oils and structural damages in the Middle East have forced refineries to switch their yields to favor diesel output.

As European buyers struggle to find virgin products, they are increasingly turning to re-refined base oils. The crisis has prompted lubricant manufacturers to reconsider their formulations and either introduce or increase the share of RRBO in existing products. The Middle East war has increased the willingness of these manufacturers to consider RRBO, with some seeing it as a more reliable alternative due to its lower exposure to geopolitical risks.

While the price of RRBO has risen in response to the virgin supply shortages, the adoption of RRBO is expected to continue, especially in Group II and III grades, as demand for these products grows. However, the cost of production remains a concern, as energy prices have spiked globally, impacting both virgin and re-refined base oils producers.