lubricating oilImport agent: A Blue Ocean Market Worth Billions

With the rapid development of Chinas manufacturing industry, the lubricant import market continues to heat up. According to the latest data from the General Administration of Customs, Chinas lubricant imports reached 1.2 million tons in 2022, a year-on-year increase of 8.5%. As a seasoned foreign trade professional, I will share 20 years of practical experience in this article to help you seize this market opportunity.

I. Product Selection Strategy and Market Positioning

Sub-market Selection

• Industrial Lubricants: Suitable for manufacturing and energy industries
• Automotive Lubricants: Focus on specialty oils for new energy vehicles
• Specialty Lubricants: High added value with demanding technical requirements

Supplier Screening Criteria

II.Trade termsSelection and Risk Control

Comparison of Common Trade Terms

• FOB: Suitable for initial cooperation with controllable risks
• CIF: Full-process service, but pay attention to insurance clauses
• DDP: Terminal delivery, note customs clearance efficiency

Payment Method Recommendations

Recommended payment methods: 30% advance payment + T/T 70% balance, or L/C at sight. Special attention:

• Confirm SWIFT CODE accuracy
• Verify bank account information
• Monitor exchange rate fluctuation risks

III. Key Points of Customs Clearance Practices

Essential Document Checklist

• Certificate of Origin
• MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)
• Quality Inspection Report
• Packing List, Commercial Invoice
• Bill of Lading

Tariff Policies and HS Codes

Under the latest tariff policy, lubricant import tariffs are 6.5% with 13% VAT. Recommended HS code:

• 27101991: Base oil
• 27101992: Finished lubricants

IV. Logistics and Warehousing Management

Transportation Mode Selection

• Sea freight: Low cost, suitable for bulk cargo
• Air freight: Fast delivery, suitable for urgent orders
• Railway: Cost-effective, suitable for Central Asia region

Warehousing Precautions

• Temperature control: 15-25℃ optimal
• Moisture & dust proof: Professional storage facilities
• Batch management: FIFO principle

V. Common Risks and Response Strategies

Quality Disputes

The recommendation:

• Sign detailed quality agreement
• Third-party inspection report
• Retained sample sealing

Customs Clearance Delays

Contingency measures:

• Prepare complete documents in advance
• Select reputable customs brokers
• Allow sufficient lead time

VI. Industry Trends and Opportunities

Specialty Oils for New Energy Sector

With the explosive growth of the new energy vehicle market, demand for related lubricants is rapidly increasing.

Environmentally Friendly Lubricants

Biodegradable lubricants have broad market prospects, aligning with environmental policy directions.

Conclusion: Lubricant import agency requires professional knowledge and extensive experience. New entrants are advised to start with base oils to gradually accumulate experience and client resources, while closely monitoring policy changes and market trends.