SN-500 Base Oil Price Trends (Global Overview)
Introduction: Why Monitor SN-500 Base Oil Pricing?
SN-500 Base Oil, a key Group I cut, plays a foundational role in the blending of lubricants, greases, and industrial oils. With its medium viscosity, SN-500 is widely used in hydraulic oils, gear oils, and engine oil formulations. For buyers in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and South America, understanding global SN-500 base oil price trends is essential for:
- Procurement forecasting
- Inventory and shipping planning
- Contract negotiation
- Margin protection
In this article, we provide an up-to-date global snapshot of SN-500 price movements, key market drivers, and actionable insights for industrial buyers and oil traders.
What is SN-500 Base Oil?
SN-500 is a solvent neutral base oil with a kinematic viscosity of ~10.8 cSt at 100°C and a flash point above 235°C. It belongs to Group I base oils, which are solvent-refined and contain greater than 0.03% sulfur.
Common Applications:
- Automotive engine oils (SAE 40/50)
- Industrial gear oils
- Hydraulic systems
- Grease manufacturing
- Marine cylinder oils
See full SN-500 base oil specifications from Work & Energy Co.
Global SN-500 Base Oil Price Snapshot (Q3 2025)
| Region | Typical Bulk FOB Price (USD/MT) | Trend (QoQ) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Middle East | $720–$750 | ▲ +3.5% | Tightening supply from re-refiners |
| South Asia | $730–$780 | ▲ +2.1% | Strong automotive demand |
| East Africa | $800–$850 | ▲ +4.2% | Transport costs & limited regional supply |
| Southeast Asia | $740–$790 | ▶ Stable | Mixed buyer sentiment post-monsoon |
| West Africa | $790–$830 | ▲ +2.8% | Blending demand ahead of Q4 industrial peak |
| South America | $780–$820 | ▶ Stable | Supply steady; demand moderate |
Prices are indicative for SN-500 base oil in bulk drums or flexitanks. Packaging & delivery terms may vary.
Key Drivers of SN-500 Base Oil Prices in 2025
1. Feedstock Crude Oil Price Volatility
Base oil prices are closely tied to Brent and WTI crude benchmarks. As Brent crossed $88/barrel in July 2025, base oil refiners adjusted prices upward to maintain margins.
2. Shipping & Logistics Costs
Increased container freight rates, especially from Middle East to Africa and Asia, have pushed up CIF base oil prices. Flexitank container shortages continue to strain small/medium-volume buyers.
3. Re-refined vs. Virgin SN-500 Supply
Re-refined SN-500 from thin film distillation units is gaining traction as a cost-effective, environmentally friendly substitute. However, the limited number of hydrofinished suppliers caps availability.
Explore re-refined SN-500 via TFD process from Work & Energy Co.
4. Regional Demand Fluctuations
- South Asia & Africa: Seasonal upticks in demand from industrial and automotive sectors.
- MENA: Public infrastructure and construction projects are fueling demand for hydraulic and gear oils.
5. Exchange Rates and Inflation
In emerging markets, currency depreciation has increased landed base oil costs, even if FOB prices remain stable.
SN-500 Base Oil: Buyer’s Perspective (Procurement Tips)
| Factor | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Pricing Volatility | Lock-in short-term contracts when prices dip or stabilize |
| Quality Consistency | Request full specs and batch COAs (KV, VI, sulfur, TAN, flash) |
| Delivery Options | Consider bulk, flexitank, or drum based on port facilities |
| Supplier Credibility | Work with ISO-certified, export-focused suppliers |
| Re-refined Option | Qualify TFD-derived SN-500 to diversify sourcing |
Why Choose Work & Energy Co. as Your SN-500 Supplier?
Work & Energy Co. is a trusted exporter of SN-150, SN-500, SN-600, and SOC-4 base oils, serving over 15 countries with bulk and containerized delivery.
What We Offer:
- SN-500 Base Oil (Group I) – from virgin and re-refined sources
- Customized packaging – Bulk, Flexitank, New Steel Drum
- Consistent specs – KV@100°C ≥10.8, VI ≥87, Flash ≥235°C
- Flexible MOQ & Incoterms – FOB, CFR, CIF options
- Fast documentation & customs support
- Technical QC and COAs for every batch
Get our SN-500 spec sheet or request a price quote today.
Long-Term Outlook: Will SN-500 Base Oil Prices Continue to Rise?
Forecast:
- Moderate upward pressure remains due to stable demand and refinery outages.
- Alternative sourcing (re-refined supply) may soften prices by mid‑2026.
- Shipping improvements in key regions could reduce logistics-driven inflation.
Insight: Buyers should watch crude price direction, refinery shutdowns, and freight rates—three biggest price influencers heading into Q4 and early 2026.
Final Thoughts: Stay Price-Ready, Stay Informed
SN-500 remains one of the most versatile and in-demand base oils worldwide. Whether you’re blending lubricants in South Asia, manufacturing grease in West Africa, or trading barrels in the Gulf, understanding price dynamics and supplier credibility is crucial.
Work & Energy Co. continues to lead with reliable supply, flexible shipping, and technical integrity.
Contact our export team today for live SN-500 pricing, specifications, and logistics planning.
Related Articles
- What is Thin Film Distillation (TFD) in Base Oil Production?
- SN-150 vs SN-500: Applications & Viscosity Differences
- How Re-Refined Base Oil Helps the Circular Economy
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