The bitumen market in Sub-Saharan Africa is moving in two different directions. Cargo prices are falling fast after crude oil dropped following the US-Iran ceasefire. This is easing pressure on import costs, especially in West Africa. At the same time, local truck prices are still going up. This is because earlier high-priced cargoes are now reaching the market, and supply from cheaper shipments is still limited. In East Africa, supply problems continue due to shipping restrictions linked to the Strait of Hormuz, which keeps prices firm. Demand remains strong in many countries, especially where road projects are active. For now, it seems that cargo prices may stay softer, but local prices could remain high until new, cheaper supply fully enters the market.
Nigeria Market Stays Strong as Truck Prices Climb Further
The Nigerian market remains active, with strong construction demand supporting steady buying. Truck prices continued to move up slightly during the week ending 17 April. Prices were reported around N1.35–1.4mn/t ($1,006–1,043/t) ex-works, compared to earlier levels near N1.25–1.35mn/t. Some deals were still seen near N1.3mn/t, showing gradual increases.
This rise seems to be linked to the depletion of older, lower-cost cargoes imported before the conflict. As these stocks run out, newer and more expensive supply is shaping the market. Cargo deliveries into Nigeria are ongoing, helping to meet strong demand during the dry season. For now, prices may continue to edge higher until cheaper imports arrive.
Ivory Coast and Cameroon See Stable Flow but Limited Fresh Supply Signals
In Ivory Coast, refinery activity appears to have resumed after maintenance, but no fresh cargo shipments have been reported recently. This suggests supply may still be stabilizing. Buyers in the region are watching closely for new export flows.
In Cameroon, imports continue, with a cargo expected to arrive in Douala from Spain. This shows that supply chains are active, although not very strong. The market feels steady for now, but without clear signs of increased supply, prices could remain supported in the short term.
Ghana Demand Grows Fast with Government Road Projects
Ghana is seeing strong demand driven by government infrastructure plans. The “Big Push” road program is clearly supporting market activity, and a second cargo arrived quickly after the previous one.
Imports are increasing, with about 16,000t already delivered this year, compared to 31,000t for all of last year. This shows how fast demand is growing. Market players say demand could go above 2025 levels.
With steady cargo arrivals and strong project activity, the market looks firm. For now, Ghana may continue to attract more imports as contractors keep buying to support road construction.
East Africa Faces Supply Pressure Despite Firm Prices
East Africa is dealing with tight supply, even though prices remain high. Iranian bulk cargo prices increased to $547–565/t fob Bandar Abbas, up by $25/t, while drummed prices stayed at $575–600/t. These are much higher than late February levels of around $295–305/t and $355–366/t.
Freight rates also remain high at $225–235/t, compared to below $120/t before the conflict. This is keeping delivered prices elevated. Supply is still limited due to shipping restrictions near the Strait of Hormuz.
It seems that even with stable pricing, the lack of available cargoes is the main issue. Until shipping conditions improve, supply pressure may continue.
Kenya and Regional Markets Struggle with Limited Imports
In Kenya and nearby markets like Uganda, Tanzania, and DRC, supply disruptions are clearly visible. Many shipments have been delayed due to restrictions on vessels linked to Iranian exports. Some cargoes are still waiting to move, even after being ready before the conflict.
A small shipment of around 2,000–3,000t is expected to arrive in Mombasa, but this is not enough to balance the market. Domestic prices are high, with bulk truck prices around KES 175/kg ($1,356/t) ex-Nairobi. Drummed prices are slightly lower at KES 155–165/kg ($1,201–1,278/t), but availability is limited.
For now, the market remains tight, and prices may stay elevated until more stable supply routes are available.
South Africa Prices Rise Quickly on High Import Costs
South Africa is seeing strong activity before the winter slowdown, especially in road work and bitumen applications. Truck prices increased again by R500/t, reaching R13,000–13,500/t ($792–823/t), after already rising by R1,000/t the week before.
Some offers were even higher at R14,500/t, while older stock was still available at R12,300–12,600/t. This shows a wide price range depending on supply timing.
Import costs are the main driver. FOB prices from Greece and Turkey were around $570–580/t, with freight adding $220–230/t, pushing CFR prices close to $800/t. With limited supply from the Middle East, the market now depends more on European sources.
It seems that prices may stay high in the short term, especially with strong demand before winter.
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Bitumen 60/70 Price Today in Africa
