Glide Technologies and Etu Energias to Launch Angola's First Lubricant Blending Plant

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 14 (Bernama) -- Glide Technologies, a Malaysian manufacturer of lubricants, has announced a joint venture with Angola's Etu Energias to develop a lubricant blending plant in Luanda, Angola. This facility will be the first of its kind in the country and is expected to significantly boost local production capabilities.

The blending plant will have a production capacity of 12,000 metric tons per year and is projected to cost $5 million. Operations are slated to commence in 2025, according to a recent announcement by Etu Energias. The initiative aims to cover about 25% of Angola's domestic lubricant consumption, which currently stands at around 40,000 tons annually, as reported by state news agency Angop.

“The project will establish Angola’s domestic lubricant production capabilities, with room for expansion.”Edson dos Santos, Chief Operating Officer, Etu Energias

Edson dos Santos, Chief Operating Officer of Etu Energias, expressed optimism about the venture, stating that the project will establish Angola’s domestic lubricant production capabilities, with room for expansion. Until the plant is operational, products branded as Premium and Beyond will be imported from Glide's existing production facility in Malaysia.

Glide Technologies, founded in 2007, has been expanding its market reach beyond Malaysia, having already established a presence in countries such as Japan, Singapore, and the UAE. The company is also set to invest RM9 million to set up a new production facility in Shah Alam, Malaysia, which will focus on producing palm oil ester-based transformer oil in collaboration with the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB).

“Their strategic position enables them to drive this ESG-compliant innovation, significantly contributing to both domestic and international energy transitions.”Datuk Muhazli Muhamad, President and Founder, Glide Technologies

Datuk Muhazli Muhamad, President and Founder of Glide Technologies, highlighted the strategic importance of this collaboration, saying that their strategic position enables them to drive this ESG-compliant innovation, significantly contributing to both domestic and international energy transitions. The company aims to generate RM30 million in sales over the next five years from its palm oil-based products.

As part of its growth strategy, Glide Technologies is also looking to enhance its brand presence in Malaysia and expand its distribution network, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak.