GCC Updates Standards for Lubricating Oils in Combustion Engines

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has recently introduced revised versions of two standardized rules relating to lubricating oils used in internal combustion engines.

The Standards will be applicable in all GSO (Gulf Standardisation Organisation) Member States as part of the regional harmonization efforts.

In line with the general goal of the GSO of unifying and coordinating standardization efforts among Gulf states to boost economic development, consumer protection, and environmental health, it has updated the GCC Technical Regulation for Lubricating Oils for Internal Combustion Engines Standards. This includes Part 1 on API Classifications of Lubricating Oils for Gasoline and Diesel Engines and Part 2 on ACEA European Oil Sequences for Gasoline Engines and Diesel Engines.

The standards encompass a spectrum of provisions, ranging from consumer information and protection against deceptive practices to environmental preservation, quality mandates, harmonization, as well as efforts to diminish trade barriers and enhance trade facilitation. They will be binding on all current Member States of the GCC, hence, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait and Yemen.

The regulation’s adoption date and entry into force are yet to be determined, pending final confirmation. The text of the regulation can be viewed HERE.