The global bitumen market this week reflected a mix of seasonal shifts, logistical bottlenecks, and regional policy developments. While Europe grapples with oversupply and cautious demand, Africa’s construction sector is preparing for the end of the rainy season, and Asia navigates weather disruptions and cautious procurement strategies.
Across northwest and central Europe, supply remained plentiful, but seasonal demand was softer than expected. Rotterdam cargo activity slowed as buyers hesitated, while Baltic exporters continued feeding Nordic demand.
Germany’s newly approved budget has released long-awaited funds for infrastructure, setting the stage for more road projects in the coming weeks. France and Benelux saw seasonal upticks, though long-term demand expectations remain muted. Eastern Europe faced surpluses, with Poland and Czech Republic suppliers lowering export values. In the Nordics, confidence grew as government-backed projects supported road construction, though Baltic rainfall weighed on local activity.
In West Africa, the rainy season continued to suppress demand, but recovery is expected by mid-October. Nigeria and Cameroon still struggled with wet conditions, though steady offtake was noted among committed buyers.
South Africa marked a turning point with its construction season resuming. Cargo arrivals in Durban and Cape Town underlined rising local consumption. Meanwhile, Mauritania’s imports surged, driven by active construction projects supported by Chinese contractors.
Logistics hubs remained busy. Large tankers loaded in Turkey and Greece headed toward Lome, Togo, cementing West Africa’s role as a central terminal hub for regional distribution.
Singapore faced weak export demand, with inventories staying high despite expectations of lower production in October. South Korea continued to position cargoes for export, including routes toward West Africa.
China’s coastal demand remained modest, while Southeast Asia faced procurement delays due to monsoon disruptions. Vietnam and Thailand opted for smaller, project-aligned purchases rather than large-scale commitments. Regional logistics patterns showed cautious scheduling, with many buyers holding off until clearer Q4 demand trends emerge.
As Q3 moves into its final stretch, the global bitumen market is shaped by seasonal construction cycles, weather disruptions, and newly released infrastructure funding. The next 4–6 weeks will be critical in determining whether Europe’s new projects, Africa’s dry-season recovery, and Asia’s cautious procurement will translate into stronger global momentum.