Asia’s base oils exports to southeast Asia lagged the region's demand in September, raising the prospect of regular requirements during the fourth quarter to sustain sufficient stocks.Exports of more than 200,000 tonnes to southeast Asia in September edged down from the previous month, government data showed.Demand in southeast Asia by contrast rose to more than 205,000 tonnes in September, recovering from a seasonal slowdown of less than 190,000 tonnes the previous month.The subsequent supply-shortfall in September contrasted with a build-up of surplus volumes during the previous two months..Demand in the region typically sees a seasonal slowdown during the final months of the year.Expectations of sufficient availability of supply and downward pressure on base oils prices added to blenders’ preference to maintain lean inventories.A slowdown in regional demand would leave stocks lasting longer and add to blenders’ preference to keep low inventories..Firmer demand by contrast consumed those stocks faster and speeded up the need to replenish the depleted supplies.Any extension of the pick-up in southeast Asia’s demand through the fourth quarter of the year would also help to absorb more of Asia’s supplies.Such a scenario would trim the size of any supply-surplus and curb pressure on refiners to target more distant markets with those volumes..Vietnam’s September base oils/lube imports rise.Singapore September base oils exports rise
