By Sinopec Online Technical Team
Overview
The October 2025 base oil market reflected uneven performance across regions. European and US markets were stable to soft, while Asia faced increasing supply pressure. The Middle East remained firm, supported by constrained availability and logistical limits. Sinopec Online continues to monitor these developments to assist buyers with reliable supply and insight.
Europe
European Group I base oils held steady in mid-September, supported by accumulated stocks and weak downstream demand. Group II 150N values slipped slightly as availability improved. Arbitrage from Asia increased due to lower freight costs and a weaker US dollar. Group III spot prices remained firm, though trading activity was limited. Exports for heavier grades were slow.
United States
Despite isolated tightness, the US market showed signs of lengthening. Price direction remained soft as increased availability outweighed local demand. Some customers sought extra volumes, but this did not lead to sustained price increases. Border and permit delays slowed exports to Mexico.
Asia
Market sentiment in Asia was pressured by strong supply from Southeast and Northeast Asia. Brightstock availability improved. India’s Group I balance was steady due to inflows from Iran, China, and the US. Group II markets were quiet as buyers delayed decisions amid ongoing monsoon conditions. Group III light-grade material held firm against an oversupply of heavy grades.
Middle East
Group I markets in the Middle East stayed buoyant due to limited supply and vessel constraints. Sanctions affecting Iranian trade restricted cargo flows into the Gulf region. Group II eased slightly as demurrage cleared, though congestion persisted. Group III prices strengthened as supply of NE-Asia cargoes remained tight.
Market Summary
| Grade | Europe | US | Asia | Middle East |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Group I | Steady | Lengthening | Pressured | Tight / firm |
| Group II | Slight decline | Soft | Muted | Stable |
| Group III | Firm | Flat | Limited demand | Stronger |
Interactive base oil price trends (illustrative)
Prices in USD per tonne. Data are indicative for visual context and can be edited in the script.
Outlook
In the final quarter of 2025, the base oil market is expected to stay divided by region. Length in Asia may continue to weigh on global sentiment, while ongoing logistical limits and sanctions are likely to support Middle Eastern and European prices. Buyers should remain flexible and track regional changes closely.
Keep updated through our Market Updates Blog for new pricing movements, product availability, and quarterly outlooks.
Cross-References
- Group I vs Group II Base Oils: Key Differences and Applications
- Group II vs Group III Base Oils: Performance and Formulation Insights
- Brightstock and Heavy Neutral Oils: Role in Modern Lubricant Blends
Source: Sinopec Online Technical Team analysis based on ICIS Base Oil Report, October 2025.
