The global bitumen market is navigating seasonal transitions and logistical constraints. While European regions enter the summer lull, African nations face heavy rains and import hurdles. In Asia, buyers are tactically adjusting to weather patterns and tight supply across hubs like Singapore and East China.
With summer holidays underway, construction activity has slowed across Europe. Asphalt mixing plants and road haulage firms reduced operations, impacting short-term bitumen demand. Germany and Austria are heading into refinery turnarounds, likely tightening supply come September.
France’s market remains subdued, with budget cuts and environmental resistance affecting future infrastructure rollout. Meanwhile, The Netherlands plans a €25 billion infrastructure investment, signaling demand resurgence in the mid-to-long term.
Poland, Czech Republic, and Ukraine saw mixed dynamics—Ukraine’s record import levels are covering domestic production gaps, especially as refineries in Poland run selectively. Imports into the Nordics and Baltics remain active, supporting summer construction efforts.
Africa saw steady momentum despite weather and administrative challenges. West African countries grappled with heavy rainfall, reducing bitumen demand across Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon. However, shipments to Abidjan and Dakar continued, with cargo premiums holding firm.
Algeria introduced a new rule mandating pre-notification of import volumes, which could delay shipments. Despite this, construction remains busy, fueled by ongoing infrastructure activity.
Morocco's demand surged ahead of the 2025 African Cup of Nations. In Southern Africa, cargo flows slowed while domestic pricing held steady. Multi-destination deliveries are becoming more frequent, enhancing logistical efficiency across port hubs.
Monsoons across Southeast Asia impacted procurement planning. Buyers in Vietnam and Thailand are navigating intermittent delays, though recent vessel activity points to resumed interest.
Singapore remains a tight market, with exporters holding limited availability. Despite this, some buyers are locking in premium cargoes to secure future supply. In East China, demand remains selective, while South Korea is increasingly serving as a regional export point.
Vietnam’s import trend shows signs of recovery, aligning with broader regional efforts to prepare for post-monsoon execution of projects.
With the third quarter underway, global buyers are adapting to weather-driven delays and pre-holiday slowdowns. Close monitoring of refinery operations and regional logistics will be key as demand potentially rebounds post-August.