he Europe and Mediterranean bitumen market stayed firm this week as tight supply and higher HSFO prices continued to support values. In northwest Europe, most truck prices were stable, while Poland and the Czech Republic saw stronger prices because of limited regional supply and rising seasonal demand. High prices are still slowing buying activity in markets such as Germany, Hungary, Romania and parts of the Balkans. At the same time, refinery maintenance and reduced availability of bitumen-rich crude grades are keeping supply tight across many regions. In the Mediterranean, cargo prices moved higher as refiners focused more on diesel and gasoline production instead of bitumen. Demand in North Africa remained active ahead of the Eid holiday, although elevated prices continued to pressure buyers. For now, the market is expected to remain firm into June as paving activity increases across Europe.
UK Market Remains Stable
UK domestic truck prices stayed unchanged at £515-530/t delivered after earlier May reductions. Imports from the Netherlands and France continued to cover demand smoothly.
Dutch exports to the UK reached 20,000t in April, while French shipments totalled 15,000t in the first half of May. No cargo imports were reported into Ireland during the week.
French Supply Stays Comfortable Despite Maintenance
French truck prices remained stable at €515-530/t delivered in the south and €575-590/t in the north and centre.
Although TotalEnergies’ Donges refinery started maintenance in mid-May, supply has remained sufficient because demand has been softer during the holiday period. The restart of the Port Jerome refinery also improved availability in northern France.
Benelux Prices Edge Higher
Ex-Rotterdam truck prices increased by €7-8/t to €590-600/t, while Antwerp values stayed at €585-600/t.
Exports from Shell’s Pernis refinery have risen strongly this year, reaching 186,000t so far in 2026 compared with 82,000t last year.
German Demand Remains Weak
German truck prices were steady this week, but demand has not improved strongly since the paving season began.
Earlier stockpiling reduced fresh buying needs, while supply in eastern Germany remained tight because of lower imports from Poland and the Czech Republic.
Poland and Czech Republic See Stronger Prices
Polish domestic truck prices rose by €25/t to €620-635/t ex-works because of tight supply and crude constraints linked to the Iran conflict.
Czech domestic prices increased by €10/t to €605-615/t ex-works, while export prices into Germany climbed to €600-615/t.
Ukrainian Imports and Prices Continue Rising
Ukraine’s imports increased to 13,000t during the first ten days of May, up from 7,000t in April.
Imported prices at the western border rose to 46,000-46,300 hryvnia/t fca (€894-900/t with taxes), supported by strong demand and higher regional export prices.
Hungary and Serbia Face Slow Activity
Hungarian truck prices stayed at €650-660/t ex-works, while export availability into Romania remained limited.
In Serbia, rainfall and high prices slowed activity further. Imports during the week ending 8 May were estimated around 2,000t.
Nordic Demand Outlook Remains Positive
Swedish imports fell to around 70,000t so far this year from 102,000t last year.
Still, long-term Nordic demand is expected to stay strong because of government infrastructure spending.
Mediterranean Cargo Prices Continue Rising
Mediterranean cargo prices strengthened as HSFO values increased and spot availability stayed tight.
Limited access to Iraqi and Saudi crude grades after the Iran conflict has reduced regional bitumen production. Seasonal paving demand in southern Europe is also limiting export availability.
Algeria and Morocco Stay Active Before Eid
Demand in Algeria and Morocco remained steady as contractors rushed to finish projects before Eid al-Adha.
CFR Algeria premiums were discussed around $35-40/t above Mediterranean HSFO, while Moroccan levels were closer to $40-45/t.
Libya Shows Early Demand Signs
Libya remained mostly absent from imports, but suppliers reported more inquiries from buyers.
High prices and financing difficulties are still limiting business, although some demand may return after Eid.
Spain and Portugal Benefit from Seasonal Demand
Spanish domestic prices stayed at €640-655/t ex-works after earlier May increases.
Demand improved as contractors restarted delayed road projects, while favourable weather also supported activity in Portugal.
Italian Demand Slows After Rainfall
Italian truck prices remained stable at €570-585/t ex-works.
Although yearly demand remains stronger than 2025 levels, rainfall slowed paving activity during the week and created some refinery surplus stocks.
Greek Export Supply Remains Tight
Greek export supply stayed well below last year because Helleniq Energy remained absent from the export market.
Domestic Greek truck prices increased to €576/t ex-works from €566/t a week earlier.
Turkish Export Activity Stays Strong
Tupras reduced domestic truck prices by TL495/t to TL30,894/t ($678.50/t) ex-refinery.
Meanwhile, exports from the Dortyol terminal continued strongly, reaching 154,000t so far this year.
Bitumen Price In Europe
Updated Bitumen 60/70 Price in Europe
Need a reliable bitumen supply? Reach out now for competitive offers!
