The African bitumen market remained under pressure during the week as lower crude prices pushed cargo values down in several markets, especially in West Africa. At the same time, supply into East Africa stayed tight because shipping disruptions from the Middle East continued. Heavy rainfall reduced road construction activity in parts of West Africa, while South Africa saw prices weaken as new cargoes from the Middle East and Pakistan returned to the market. For now, supply conditions remain mixed across the region, with East Africa facing shortages while southern markets see improving availability.
Nigeria Demand Softens as Rainfall Slows Construction
Persistent rainfall across southern Nigeria continued to slow road projects and reduce bitumen demand. Truck prices remained stable at Naira 1.25-1.3mn/t ex-works, after easing from Naira 1.3-1.35mn/t earlier this month. Several cargoes were still arriving at Nigerian terminals. For now, market participants are closely watching weather conditions, which could further weaken demand if the rainy season starts early.
Ghana Market Remains Quiet Amid Seasonal Weather Concerns
Construction activity in Ghana remained affected by ongoing rainfall, reducing bitumen consumption across the market. Supply flows continued normally, with the tanker Accord completing deliveries into Tema before returning to Abidjan. No major price changes were reported, but weak seasonal demand is keeping market activity relatively subdued.
Cameroon Construction Activity Impacted by Rainfall
Rainfall continued to restrict road paving and construction work in Cameroon, reducing bitumen requirements. Market participants reported little change in overall conditions during the week. While supply availability appears adequate, demand is likely to remain under pressure until weather conditions improve.
Angola Receives Fresh Cargoes Despite Regional Weakness
Angola remained active from a supply perspective, with vessels continuing deliveries into Luanda. The Bitu Ocean completed part-cargo shipments while additional volumes were scheduled through the Bitu River. Although regional prices weakened alongside crude oil markets, supply flows into Angola remained steady during the week.
Kenya Supply Tightness Supports Firm Prices
Supply remained tight in Kenya as disruptions to Middle East shipping continued. Iranian drummed bitumen prices increased to $505-540/t FOB Bandar Abbas, while bulk cargo prices rose to $440-470/t FOB. Domestic truck prices were unchanged at KSh175-180/kg ($1,352-1,390/t). Demand prospects remain positive ahead of the Mau Summit highway project, which could require substantial bitumen volumes.
Uganda Benefits from Recent Deliveries
Recently delivered bulk and drummed cargoes continued to support road construction activity in Uganda. Demand remained healthy, but concerns persisted over supply availability because of ongoing US-Iran tensions and sanctions. Market participants are monitoring the situation closely as future supply risks remain elevated.
DRC Demand Stays Strong Despite Logistics Disruptions
Road construction activity remained strong in the Democratic Republic of Congo, supporting solid bitumen demand. However, the Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC reportedly disrupted truck movements from Kenya for a second consecutive week. While demand fundamentals remain positive, logistics challenges are creating uncertainty for suppliers.
Burundi Sees Interest but Few Deals
Some buying interest emerged in Burundi during the week, with inquiries reported by market participants. However, suppliers and buyers were unable to agree on pricing, limiting new business. Market activity therefore remained modest despite ongoing demand discussions.
South African Prices Fall as Imports Return
South African truck prices fell by Rand 500/t to Rand 14,200-14,700/t ex-works. The decline was driven by lower Mediterranean export prices and the return of Middle Eastern cargoes after a long interruption. Pakistani and Mediterranean supplies also increased competition. With additional imports expected in June, prices may remain under pressure.
Mozambique Weather Continues to Weigh on Demand
Wetter and colder conditions continued to affect parts of Mozambique, limiting construction activity and bitumen consumption. No significant price movements were reported during the week. Market sentiment remains cautious as weather conditions continue to influence project activity.
Gabon Receives Fresh Cargo Deliveries
Gabon remained supported by regional supply flows, with the Bitu River scheduled to deliver part-cargo volumes into Libreville. No major changes in pricing or demand were reported. Market conditions appeared generally stable during the week.
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Bitumen 60/70 Price Today in Africa
