Russia faces looming car oil shortage as prices jump 40% over summer
Prices for some car oils and lubricants in Russia have risen by up to 40% this summer, with industry figures warning of a possible shortage. Since the start of the year, oil prices in Russia have climbed an average of 15–20%.
Russian businesses are increasingly reporting disruptions in supplies of certain car oils and lubricants, with business daily Kommersant reporting that prices for some products have risen by as much as 40% over the summer. Industry representatives say it is still too early to call it a large-scale shortage, but describe the trend as worrying.
Vladimir Andreyev, sales manager at the trading platform Fresh, said some motor oil items are no longer available at all — sellers are now buying from intermediaries whatever stock manufacturers managed to ship earlier. The shortage is most noticeable in the premium and original-parts segment, particularly for Shell and Castrol lubricants, BMW oils and VAG group products.
Domestic production still relatively stable
The situation with lubricants made inside Russia remains comparatively stable, with no physical shortage so far. However, industry sources caution this could change, since the segment's stability depends on factors the market itself cannot control — namely the availability of imported components needed to manufacture the oils.
Some supply disruptions are attributed to unplanned repairs at oil refineries, as well as restrictions affecting raw materials used to produce coolants. Logistics problems are adding further pressure, as disruptions to oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz are pushing up both raw material costs and cargo insurance expenses.
Lower-grade fuel could boost demand
Demand for lubricants may also rise because Russia is now selling lower environmental-class gasoline, which requires more frequent oil changes. At the same time, fuel shortages are reducing overall vehicle mileage, though using fuel that doesn't meet modern environmental standards can accelerate engine wear and contamination, in some cases even requiring engine replacement.
Since the start of the year, car oil prices in Russia have risen by an average of 15–20%, depending on brand, driven by oil costs, logistics expenses and currency fluctuations.
