Monsoon Impact and Supply Constraints Shape Bitumen Market in Asia-Pacific

The bitumen market in Asia-Pacific is navigating diverse pressures this month, from supply interruptions and refinery maintenance to seasonal demand fluctuations influenced by the monsoon.

In India, ongoing monsoon rains have curtailed construction activities, leading to reduced bitumen consumption. This seasonal slowdown has resulted in elevated stock levels and downward pressure on local prices.

Meanwhile, Singapore’s bitumen exports are tightening due to limited cargo availability. With most August-loading shipments sold out, sellers are pushing prices higher, currently hovering between $420 and $425 per ton FOB Singapore.

Malaysia is also experiencing a temporary supply shortfall, as a key refinery paused operations last week to complete blending processes. This reduction, coupled with Singapore’s constrained output, has tightened regional supplies and is expected to support upward price movements.

In Indonesia, buyers are increasing their bids for imported bitumen, reacting to shrinking supplies of competitively priced local products. This trend suggests a potential shift in market preference towards imports amid local scarcity.

Thailand’s bitumen sector is managing to maintain stable domestic stocks despite a month-long maintenance shutdown at a major refinery. However, export cargoes remain limited, with July shipments priced around $410–415 per ton FOB Thailand.

Vietnam reports steady demand overall, although sporadic rains in southern areas have dampened activity. Northern importers are actively replenishing inventories in response to sustained demand, while central Vietnam benefits from increased consumption linked to ongoing highway projects scheduled for completion in August.

As the region balances weather disruptions and supply-side constraints, market watchers anticipate continued price volatility in the coming weeks.