Global bitumen markets are moving through a seasonal transition, shaped by winter weather in Europe, steady import planning across Africa, and tactical buying slowdowns in Asia-Pacific ahead of regional holidays. Supply chains remain active, but demand signals differ widely by region.
🌐 Key Global Highlights of the Week
🚧 Europe: Cargo Shortages and Seasonal Demand Collide
Europe remains in its weakest seasonal demand window, with wintry weather limiting roadwork across major markets. Construction activity stayed muted, resulting in low truck movement and reduced spot buying interest.
At the same time, refinery maintenance across parts of France and Germany has tightened supply availability in selective zones, creating localized constraints even within a generally slow demand period.
Logistics patterns are also shifting, with terminal operators adjusting sourcing strategies to maintain steady supply coverage heading into late Q1.
🌍 Africa: Strong Imports, Regional Planning, and New Vessels
Across West Africa, import flows remain substantial as key markets continue building inventory during active infrastructure cycles. Nigeria remains a core demand center, though execution is being tempered by delayed contractor payments.
East Africa is gaining momentum, particularly in Kenya, where project activity is increasing steadily and forward expectations remain strong.
Southern Africa faced disruption from heavy rainfall, especially around Durban, where incoming cargo volumes arrived just as demand softened—raising concerns around short-term oversupply and storage pressure.
🌏 Asia-Pacific: Weather Disruptions and Tactical Delays
Asia-Pacific markets are entering a quieter procurement phase. Singapore has largely completed February positioning, while March discussions remain early and cautious.
Malaysia and Indonesia continue seeing project slowdowns linked to persistent rainfall, while Vietnam demand is easing ahead of Tet-related pauses in activity.
China remains in its winter lull, with cold waves and snowfall limiting paving work. Meanwhile, South Korea’s export activity reflects expectations that buying momentum may return strongly after the holiday period.