The global bitumen market entered a pivotal phase by the end of May 2025, marked by contrasting regional dynamics and shifting supply-demand balances. In Europe, renewed refinery operations and seasonal construction activity intersected with funding delays in Central and Eastern regions. Sub-Saharan Africa witnessed accelerated import demand ahead of the rainy season, even as production hiccups in South Africa increased reliance on imports. Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific and Middle East markets remained cautious amid monsoonal slowdowns in India, mixed refinery outputs in Southeast Asia, and inventory-driven hesitancy in China. This concise overview highlights the critical trends, logistical challenges, and infrastructure-led momentum shaping the global bitumen landscape at month-end.
As infrastructure investments ramp up and weather-driven seasonality kicks in, the bitumen market enters a critical transition phase. While some regions are experiencing high project activity and tightening supplies, others are feeling the weight of delayed tenders, weather disruptions, and strategic inventory management.
From refinery restarts in Europe to demand slowdowns in Asia, this global market report offers a consolidated view of regional momentum and challenges as of May 2025.
North & Central Europe presents a region of contrasts.
France faces supply constraints due to delayed refinery restarts, just as seasonal construction demand begins to build.
Germany remains steady in the North, but the South reports a slowdown due to subdued project flow and regional competition.
Meanwhile, Benelux markets are outperforming expectations, driven by strong project pipelines heading into summer.
Further east, Poland and the Czech Republic await clarity on infrastructure funding. Budgetary delays are keeping project execution and demand on hold.
In the Nordic and Baltic regions, mild weather has sustained steady demand with regular import arrivals supporting ongoing works.
Nigeria, Cameroon, and Togo are leading the bitumen import surge as contractors race to complete paving before the rainy season sets in. With rising demand, terminals in West Africa remain highly active, supported by an uptick in inbound shipments.
South Africa is drawing down built-up inventory after weeks of sluggish movement. However, ongoing production halts at key facilities have increased dependence on import routes.
In East Africa, Kenya stands out for its economic revival-led construction activity. Favorable currency access and improved liquidity have enabled stronger procurement. However, Uganda and Ethiopia are facing delays—one due to slow sectoral recovery, the other due to persistent trade financing barriers.
Central Africa, including Cameroon, continues to receive part-cargoes, keeping the region’s logistics and paving activities well-supported.
In Singapore, discussions have stalled as suppliers hold firm amid squeezed margins, and buyers remain hesitant due to economic uncertainties and high term contract coverage.
In India, the early arrival of the monsoon has dramatically slowed demand. With inventories rising and fewer tenders, most buyers are staying on the sidelines.
Indonesia and Malaysia show limited activity due to a lack of project releases and ongoing rains in key regions like Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru. Restrictions related to school holidays are also limiting the movement of heavy vehicles, further slowing bitumen logistics.
Vietnam shows patchy interest. While the South and Central regions are still sourcing cargoes, rains and high inventory levels are capping spot interest.
Thailand resumes refinery operations, but lower margins are keeping production conservative. Local demand remains weather-dependent and limited to short bursts of dry periods.
China has boosted domestic bitumen output, but downstream consumption is lagging. Rainfall and delayed funding are dragging down demand in southern and eastern provinces. Most traders prefer fulfilling long-term contracts over risky spot deals.
South Korea has seen increased export activity, with June shipments directed towards East China and even longer-haul destinations like Australia.
In Australia and New Zealand, winter has effectively paused road construction. Cold and wet conditions have left markets dormant, with minimal trading activity expected over the next few months.
The global bitumen market is navigating a complex web of region-specific trends. While Africa and Europe show strong infrastructure momentum, Asia-Pacific is more cautious due to weather impacts, economic variables, and inventory build-ups.
Heading into June, stakeholders should monitor:
For contractors, suppliers, and traders alike, maintaining a flexible and informed strategy will be essential as the second half of the year unfolds.
📥 Stay updated with more industry insights and trade intelligence