A Chinese ether maker decided to maximize its competitiveness through serving niche markets.

Shell opened a blending plant in Singapore last week with capacity to make 390,000 tons of lubricants per year - its third-largest blending plant in the world. The globes largest lubricant supplier said it will use the facility to strengthen its supply chain and to expand in the marine market in Asia-Pacific.

Chevron Oronite completed an expansion of its additives plant in Singapore that doubles its global carboxylate-based detergents capacity, the company announced last week.

Three base oil and finished lubricant suppliers in South Korea - SK Lubricants, S-Oil and Hyundai Shell Base Oil - all saw their third quarter profits rise on the back of higher sales. Gulf Oil made gains as well, while fellow Indian lube maker Apar Industries earnings slipped.