Key Insights
The Middle East automotive lubricants market, valued at approximately $XX million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.20% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. The region's burgeoning automotive sector, particularly the commercial vehicle segment, is a major contributor. Increased construction activity and infrastructural development across countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are boosting demand for lubricants in heavy-duty vehicles. Furthermore, the rising adoption of advanced vehicles, including passenger cars with enhanced fuel efficiency standards, is creating a demand for specialized, high-performance lubricants. Government initiatives focused on economic diversification and the expansion of tourism in several Middle Eastern nations further underpin market growth. While fluctuating crude oil prices pose a potential restraint, the ongoing investments in automotive manufacturing and infrastructure are anticipated to outweigh this challenge, supporting steady market expansion.
However, the market faces some challenges. Competition among established international players and regional brands is intense, leading to price pressures. Environmental regulations concerning lubricant composition and disposal are also becoming stricter, requiring manufacturers to adapt and invest in environmentally friendly solutions. The market segmentation reveals significant opportunities within various product types. Engine oils hold the largest market share, followed by greases and hydraulic fluids. The commercial vehicle segment consistently exhibits the highest demand, while the passenger vehicle segment is expected to experience substantial growth driven by rising disposable incomes and vehicle ownership. Key players like Petrol Ofisi, ExxonMobil, and others are focusing on strategic partnerships, product diversification, and technological advancements to maintain their market positions. The future growth of the Middle East automotive lubricants market appears promising, propelled by continuous economic growth and infrastructural developments within the region.

Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market, offering valuable insights for industry stakeholders, investors, and strategic decision-makers. The report covers the period 2019-2033, with a base year of 2025 and a forecast period of 2025-2033. The market is segmented by product type, country, and vehicle type, providing granular data and analysis for informed decision-making. Market size is expressed in Millions throughout.
Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Structure & Competitive Dynamics
This section analyzes the competitive landscape of the Middle East automotive lubricants market, examining market concentration, innovation ecosystems, regulatory frameworks, product substitutes, end-user trends, and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities. The market exhibits moderate concentration with key players holding significant market share, but also allowing for smaller regional players. Innovation is driven by the need for improved fuel efficiency, emission reduction, and extended oil drain intervals. Regulatory frameworks concerning environmental standards and product quality significantly influence the market. Competition is intense, with companies focusing on brand building, product differentiation, and strategic partnerships. The M&A activity in the sector has been relatively low in recent years with values ranging from xx Million to xx Million per deal, primarily driven by expansion strategies and consolidation within the market.
- Market Share: Key players (e.g., ExxonMobil, BP, TotalEnergies) hold a substantial portion of the overall market share, but the exact figures vary considerably across product types and countries.
- Innovation Ecosystem: Focus is on developing lubricants with enhanced performance, longer life cycles, and environmentally friendly characteristics.
- Regulatory Landscape: Stringent environmental regulations are driving demand for eco-friendly products.
- Product Substitutes: Bio-lubricants and synthetic alternatives are gaining traction due to sustainability concerns.
- End-User Trends: The increasing penetration of passenger vehicles and commercial fleets is a major growth driver.
- M&A Activity: Recent M&A deals mainly focus on market expansion and supply chain consolidation.
Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Industry Trends & Insights
The Middle East automotive lubricants market is experiencing robust growth, driven by a rising number of vehicles, increasing urbanization, and the expansion of the automotive industry. The CAGR for the period 2025-2033 is estimated to be xx%, with market penetration increasing in line with the growth of the regional automotive sector. Technological advancements, such as the development of synthetic lubricants and specialized oils for modern engines, are shaping market dynamics. Consumer preferences are shifting towards higher-quality, longer-lasting, and environmentally friendly products. The competitive landscape is marked by intense rivalry among established players and the emergence of new entrants, leading to innovative product offerings and price competition.

Dominant Markets & Segments in Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market
The Saudi Arabian and UAE markets dominate the Middle East automotive lubricants market due to their large automotive populations and robust economies. The engine oils segment holds the largest market share among product types, fueled by the high demand from passenger and commercial vehicles.
By Country:
- Saudi Arabia: High vehicle ownership, expanding infrastructure, and government initiatives are driving market expansion.
- UAE: Similar drivers as Saudi Arabia, along with a strong focus on luxury vehicles and high per capita income.
- Iran: Relatively lower than the above two, owing to economic sanctions, however, it is a market showing potential growth once the sanctions are lifted.
- Turkey: Significant growth due to increasing automotive manufacturing and exports.
- Other Countries: Relatively smaller markets, but showcasing decent growth.
By Product Type:
- Engine Oils: Dominates due to high vehicle usage across passenger and commercial segments.
- Greases: Steady demand, especially in the industrial sector.
- Hydraulic Fluids: Significant demand from heavy machinery and industrial equipment.
- Transmission & Gear Oils: Growth in line with the automotive market.
By Vehicle Type:
- Passenger Vehicles: Significant market share due to growing personal vehicle ownership.
- Commercial Vehicles: High demand due to extensive freight and transportation activities.
- Motorcycles: A smaller but growing segment.
Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Product Innovations
Recent product innovations focus on enhancing fuel efficiency, extending oil drain intervals, and reducing emissions. The introduction of synthetic blends and fully synthetic engine oils, improved grease formulations with enhanced performance characteristics, and specialized fluids tailored for specific vehicle types and operating conditions are key trends. These innovations cater to the demands for improved performance, extended service life, and environmental responsibility.
Report Segmentation & Scope
This report comprehensively segments the Middle East automotive lubricants market by:
Product Type: Engine Oils (projected growth xx Million by 2033), Greases (xx Million by 2033), Hydraulic Fluids (xx Million by 2033), Transmission & Gear Oils (xx Million by 2033). Each segment is analyzed for its market size, growth projections, and competitive dynamics.
Country: Iran, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, UAE, and Rest of Middle East. The report provides detailed country-specific analyses, including market size, growth drivers, and challenges.
Vehicle Type: Passenger Vehicles, Commercial Vehicles, and Motorcycles. Each segment's market dynamics and growth forecasts are examined.
Key Drivers of Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Growth
The market is driven by several factors including the growing number of vehicles on the road across the region, increasing urbanization and infrastructure development, rising disposable incomes, and governmental support for the automotive sector. Furthermore, technological advancements in lubricant formulations, leading to improved fuel efficiency and extended oil life, are also contributing to growth. Government regulations promoting the use of environmentally friendly lubricants further fuels market expansion.
Challenges in the Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Sector
The market faces challenges such as fluctuating crude oil prices, economic uncertainties, intense competition, and the rising adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) which could impact the future demand for conventional lubricants. Supply chain disruptions, especially following recent global events, also pose a significant threat to market stability. Stricter environmental regulations and the need for compliance can also impact the profitability of some players.
Leading Players in the Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Market
- Petrol Ofisi
- ExxonMobil Corporation
- Sepahan Oil Company
- ADNOC
- BP PLC (Castrol)
- Iranol Oil Company
- FUCHS
- TotalEnergies
- Royal Dutch Shell PLC
- Behrang Oil Company
- Petromin Corporation
Key Developments in Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Sector
September 2021: Total Turkey Pazarlama and Nissan Turkey signed a three-year agreement for Nissan Genuine Engine Oils, leveraging TotalEnergies' expertise. This strategic partnership expands market reach and brand recognition.
July 2021: Taajeer Group and APSCO partnered for MG automobile engine oil change services at Mobil Service locations. This enhances service offerings and customer convenience.
January 2022: ExxonMobil Corporation reorganized into three business lines: Upstream Company, Product Solutions, and Low Carbon Solutions. This structural change reflects a strategic focus on sustainability and diversification.
Strategic Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Outlook
The Middle East automotive lubricants market holds significant growth potential. Continued economic growth, infrastructure development, and rising vehicle ownership will drive demand. Opportunities lie in developing and marketing eco-friendly lubricants, catering to the increasing demand for sustainability. Strategic partnerships, technological advancements, and effective brand building will be crucial for success in this competitive market. The future of the market is expected to be strongly influenced by the adoption of EV technology and the resultant change in lubricant demand.
Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Segmentation
-
1. Vehicle Type
- 1.1. Commercial Vehicles
- 1.2. Motorcycles
- 1.3. Passenger Vehicles
-
2. Product Type
- 2.1. Engine Oils
- 2.2. Greases
- 2.3. Hydraulic Fluids
- 2.4. Transmission & Gear Oils
Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Segmentation By Geography
-
1. Middle East
- 1.1. Saudi Arabia
- 1.2. United Arab Emirates
- 1.3. Israel
- 1.4. Qatar
- 1.5. Kuwait
- 1.6. Oman
- 1.7. Bahrain
- 1.8. Jordan
- 1.9. Lebanon

Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 3.20% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. Rising Demand From the Fertilizer Manufacturing Sector; Increasing Usage of Sulfur for Vulcanization of Rubber; Expansion of Petroleum Refining Plants
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Stringent Environmental Regulations Regarding Emissions; High Cost of Sulfur Mining Process
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Largest Segment By Vehicle Type
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Vehicle Type
- 5.1.1. Commercial Vehicles
- 5.1.2. Motorcycles
- 5.1.3. Passenger Vehicles
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 5.2.1. Engine Oils
- 5.2.2. Greases
- 5.2.3. Hydraulic Fluids
- 5.2.4. Transmission & Gear Oils
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Middle East
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Vehicle Type
- 6. United Arab Emirates Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7. Saudi Arabia Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8. Qatar Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9. Israel Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10. Egypt Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Oman Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Rest of Middle East Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. Competitive Analysis
- 13.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 13.2. Company Profiles
- 13.2.1 Petrol Ofisi
- 13.2.1.1. Overview
- 13.2.1.2. Products
- 13.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.2 ExxonMobil Corporation
- 13.2.2.1. Overview
- 13.2.2.2. Products
- 13.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.3 Sepahan Oil Company
- 13.2.3.1. Overview
- 13.2.3.2. Products
- 13.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.4 ADNOC
- 13.2.4.1. Overview
- 13.2.4.2. Products
- 13.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.5 BP PLC (Castrol)
- 13.2.5.1. Overview
- 13.2.5.2. Products
- 13.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.6 Iranol Oil Company
- 13.2.6.1. Overview
- 13.2.6.2. Products
- 13.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.7 FUCHS
- 13.2.7.1. Overview
- 13.2.7.2. Products
- 13.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.8 TotalEnergie
- 13.2.8.1. Overview
- 13.2.8.2. Products
- 13.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.9 Royal Dutch Shell PLC
- 13.2.9.1. Overview
- 13.2.9.2. Products
- 13.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.10 Behran Oil Company
- 13.2.10.1. Overview
- 13.2.10.2. Products
- 13.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.11 Petromin Corporation
- 13.2.11.1. Overview
- 13.2.11.2. Products
- 13.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.1 Petrol Ofisi
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume Billion Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Vehicle Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume Billion Forecast, by Vehicle Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume Billion Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume Billion Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume Billion Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: United Arab Emirates Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: United Arab Emirates Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Saudi Arabia Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Saudi Arabia Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Qatar Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Qatar Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Israel Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Israel Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Egypt Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Egypt Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Oman Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Oman Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Rest of Middle East Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Rest of Middle East Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Vehicle Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume Billion Forecast, by Vehicle Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume Billion Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume Billion Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Saudi Arabia Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Saudi Arabia Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: United Arab Emirates Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: United Arab Emirates Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: Israel Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: Israel Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: Qatar Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: Qatar Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: Kuwait Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: Kuwait Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: Oman Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 42: Oman Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 43: Bahrain Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 44: Bahrain Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 45: Jordan Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 46: Jordan Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 47: Lebanon Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 48: Lebanon Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 3.20%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market?
Key companies in the market include Petrol Ofisi, ExxonMobil Corporation, Sepahan Oil Company, ADNOC, BP PLC (Castrol), Iranol Oil Company, FUCHS, TotalEnergie, Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Behran Oil Company, Petromin Corporation.
3. What are the main segments of the Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market?
The market segments include Vehicle Type, Product Type.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Rising Demand From the Fertilizer Manufacturing Sector; Increasing Usage of Sulfur for Vulcanization of Rubber; Expansion of Petroleum Refining Plants.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Largest Segment By Vehicle Type : <span style="font-family: 'regular_bold';color:#0e7db3;">Passenger Vehicles</span>.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Stringent Environmental Regulations Regarding Emissions; High Cost of Sulfur Mining Process.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
January 2022: Effective April 1, ExxonMobil Corporation was organized along three business lines - ExxonMobil Upstream Company, ExxonMobil Product Solutions and ExxonMobil Low Carbon Solutions.September 2021: Total Turkey Pazarlama and Nissan Turkey signed a new arrangement under which Nissan Turkey will deliver Nissan Genuine Engine Oils to its Turkish clients for the next three years. Nissan Genuine Engine Oils are created with the help of TotalEnergies' lubricant expertise.July 2021: Taajeer Group and APSCO agreed to work together on a long-term strategic relationship to deliver engine oil change services for MG automobiles at "Mobil Service" locations across the Kingdom.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 4950, and USD 6800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million and volume, measured in Billion.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Middle East Automotive Lubricants Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence