This week’s global bitumen market reflected contrasting regional dynamics — while Europe faced seasonal demand slowdowns and refinery maintenance issues, Africa saw renewed import activity ahead of the dry construction season. Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific markets navigated between stable export flows and tactical procurement strategies shaped by changing weather and logistics conditions.
Across north and central Europe, the paving season slowdown and steady product availability kept markets calm. However, a refinery fire in northern Germany temporarily reduced output, tightening supply in some areas. Buyers in the UK and Nordic regions focused on securing 2026 term contracts as construction demand began its typical autumn decline.
In France and Benelux, demand remained stable but fragile, influenced by economic uncertainty and political gridlock. Meanwhile, in central and eastern Europe, competitive truck exports and moderate domestic consumption persisted, with Hungary and Romania facing reduced government funding for infrastructure. Nordic demand softened as Baltic refineries resumed full operation post-maintenance.
African markets were defined by contrasting movements: South Africa’s refinery suspension caused immediate domestic shortages, while West African countries prepared for an uptick in demand with incoming cargoes. The unexpected production halt at the Abidjan refinery in Ivory Coast created temporary supply gaps, quickly filled by cargoes from Europe and the Mediterranean.
In East Africa, imports of drummed bitumen into Kenya and Tanzania continued at steady pace despite logistical challenges. Terminals in Togo and Nigeria saw increased vessel arrivals, ensuring consistent availability for ongoing and upcoming road projects. Governments across the continent remained committed to infrastructure expansion, with road construction planning intensifying ahead of favorable weather conditions.
The Asia-Pacific region remained mixed in tone. Singapore exports maintained solid activity, buoyed by regular spot deals to Indonesia. However, negotiations with Vietnam reached a standstill as buyers resisted higher offers. South Korean export activity softened amid falling feedstock values, but supply remained consistent.
Across China, procurement showed cautious optimism as refineries balanced output with infrastructure schedules. Southeast Asian logistics continued to face monsoon-related disruptions, delaying several shipments. With Q4 approaching, regional players began positioning strategically for end-of-year tenders and construction commitments.
As global bitumen markets transition toward year-end, participants are aligning procurement and shipping strategies to anticipate winter season demand dips and logistical constraints. The coming weeks will focus on refinery restarts, African infrastructure acceleration, and Asian tender activity shaping Q4 and early 2026 supply outlooks.