The Independent Lubricant Manufacturers Association (ILMA) said today it is seeking emergency regulatory flexibility following recent attacks on energy infrastructure in the Middle East that could disrupt global supplies of Group III base oils. In a notice released today, ILMA said it has formally asked the American Petroleum Institute (API) to invoke the force majeure provisions under API 1509 governing the Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System (EOLCS). If granted, the relief would allow licensed lubricant marketers temporary flexibility to substitute base oils or adjust formulations while remaining compliant with API licensing requirements during the supply disruption.

ILMA said the request reflects growing concern that potential interruptions in Group III supply could create challenges for lubricant marketers whose formulations depend on those base oils. The association also said it has contacted the U.S. Department of Energy, urging federal officials to treat the situation as an energy security and supply chain issue affecting critical U.S. industries. Read ILMA’s full statement here.