Bitumen prices across East Asia moved slightly higher, mainly supported by stronger crude oil and fuel oil markets. However, real demand stayed weak in many countries due to holidays, weather conditions, and completed February purchasing. Trading activity slowed as buyers preferred to wait for clearer market direction, especially for March loadings.
Singapore, Higher feedstock, limited demand
Seaborne prices in Singapore increased, supported by rising crude and fuel oil values.
Supply pressure eased compared with earlier weeks, but demand remained slow ahead of major regional holidays.
Some sellers raised price ideas, yet deals were limited as buyers preferred floating-price options or stayed on the sidelines.
Malaysia, Pre-holiday construction boost
Demand in Malaysia improved as contractors rushed to finish projects before the lunar new year. Better weather helped construction activity recover from previous delays.
Supply from domestic sources and Singapore remained sufficient, and importers expect demand to strengthen further after the holidays.
Indonesia, Rain and holidays slow buying
Import demand in Indonesia weakened as rainfall disrupted road works and buyers shifted focus to domestic supply.
Most buyers already covered February needs and showed little urgency for spot purchases. Interest was mainly for March cargoes, with bids staying cautious.
Thailand, Exports limited by domestic focus
Thai export activity stayed thin as refiners continued to prioritize the domestic market.
Regional demand was also quiet, with major buyers holding enough stock for February.
Export interest is expected to return toward the end of February.
Vietnam, February needs covered
Vietnamese buyers largely completed February purchasing ahead of the Tet holiday.Cold weather and rain reduced road-paving activity, especially in the north.
Offers were limited, and trading is expected to remain slow until after the holiday period.
South Korea, Supported by China-linked demand
Prices from South Korea gained support from stronger pricing signals in China.
Some export deals for early March delivery lifted market sentiment, although overall demand stayed moderate ahead of holidays.
Buying interest focused mainly on netback-based levels.
China, Price jump without demand support
Domestic prices in China rose sharply, driven by higher crude values, low inventories, and market speculation.
Despite the price increase, real consumption remained weak due to limited construction activity. Import discussions improved slightly but stayed cautious.
Taiwan, Wide price gap stalls talks
Spot demand slowed as buyers had already secured February cargoes. Sellers pushed for higher prices because of feedstock costs, while buyers resisted.
This gap led to limited fixed-price deals, with some trades shifting to floating pricing instead.
Outlook
In the near term, East Asian bitumen markets are expected to remain quiet as holidays, weather issues, and cautious buyer sentiment limit activity.
Price direction will continue to follow crude and fuel oil trends, but stronger demand is likely to return gradually from late February into March, especially once construction activity resumes across the region.
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Bitumen 60/70 Price Today in Asia
