There is no looming shortage of motor oils and other technical fluids in Russia, according to a chorus of experts and market participants. Plant capacities are being expanded, new facilities are coming online, and the challenge of sourcing additives aligned with international classifications has been resolved. In today’s landscape, LUKOIL Lubricants Central Asia LLP, a subsidiary of PJSC LUKOIL, has begun packing oils in compact containers at its facility in the Almaty region of Kazakhstan. This move is aimed not only at meeting demands from corporate fleets and service providers but also at serving the retail segment. The company now packs waste oils in 1, 4, and 5 liter cans for easier handling and reuse.
LUKOIL’s fresh lubricant packaging lines are designed to reduce the local market’s reliance on small import packages and to boost the export potential of Kazakh lubricants to Central Asia. This shift is expected to strengthen regional supply chains and create more options for customers in neighboring markets, while also supporting broader regional trade. The emphasis on localized packaging helps ensure readily available products in diverse channels, from industrial buyers to individual consumers who seek reliable lubrication solutions.
When Za Rulem, the longstanding automotive publication in Russia, inquired about the destinations for oils produced in Kazakhstan, the response highlighted a primary focus on serving Kazakhstan’s domestic market and the broader Central Asian region. The strategic aim is to streamline distribution within the local and regional markets, which could ease pressure on LUKOIL’s Russian production sites. In practical terms, this means improved availability of lubricants for customers in Russia should demand rise to such a level or in the event of supply adjustments elsewhere.
Counterfeiting remains a concern in the oil sector. The prevalence of counterfeit lubricants can undercut the value of genuine brands and affect premium products in the higher price tiers. Industry observers note that counterfeit products once represented a significant share of the Russian market, and there are expectations of continued growth in the near term. In response, LUKOIL has prioritized product protection and consumer safety through an advanced authenticity system. This system features an in mold label, a three layer bus architecture, laser marking, and a foil membrane around the neck of the canister. The neck foil serves not only as a barrier to counterfeiting but also as a safeguard against spillage if a canister is tipped over. These measures were described by LLK-International, a wholly owned subsidiary of PJSC LUKOIL, in communications about the program.
In addition to its protective measures, LUKOIL offers a broad range of oils, including the premium Genesis line, which showcases the company’s commitment to high performance and reliability across diverse automotive and industrial applications.