AZE.US
Motor oils for cars have risen sharply again in Azerbaijan, adding another cost pressure for drivers already facing higher vehicle maintenance expenses.
Market specialists say the latest increase mainly affects imported products. Prices for some motor oils had already climbed by 20-30% in an earlier wave, and a second rise of almost 30% followed within about 10 days.
One specialist gave a simple example: oil that previously sold for 50 manats ($29) rose to about 70 manats ($41), and now costs roughly 95-100 manats ($56-$59).
The increase is being linked to tensions in the Middle East, disruption in international transport and problems in the supply chain for oil production. Specialists say the shortage of base oil and the higher cost of additive packages are playing a major role.
Some companies are still able to import motor oils, even at higher prices. But market participants warn that if the supply situation worsens, Azerbaijan could face not only higher prices but also shortages of certain products.
The rise is not limited to European-made motor oils. Russian products have also become more expensive, though the increase there is smaller, estimated at about 5-10%.
Specialists say Russian producers also depend on imported additive packages. As supply routes changed, some producers began sourcing more components from China, adding pressure to costs.
There are also reported disruptions in parts of Russia’s industrial chain, which may be affecting production and prices.
If the regional situation and transport problems do not stabilize, specialists say another round of price increases cannot be ruled out in the coming months.
For drivers, the issue is straightforward: routine car maintenance is becoming more expensive. An oil change, once a predictable expense, is now increasingly tied to global supply chains, transport costs and the availability of key components.
AZE.US