China’s April Group II output rises

China’s Group II base oils output rose to an eight-month high in April even amid a round of plant maintenance work.

Base oils output of more than 261,000t in April rose from less than 248,000t the previous month, OilChem China data showed.

The volume was the highest since August 2022.

Its 4pc fall from year-earlier levels was the smallest contraction in more than a year.

The improvement was relative. It reflected more the lower base level last year following the sustained fall in output.

Output is likely to extend its recovery following the completion of plant maintenance work.