According to WPB, bitumen markets across Southeast Asia demonstrated varying trends in July 2025, reflecting unique internal conditions such as infrastructure planning, refining limitations, and fluctuations in trade dynamics. Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam each encountered distinctive market responses in terms of supply-demand balance, pricing patterns, and trade activity.
In Malaysia, the demand for bitumen has risen markedly, primarily due to active government-led infrastructure projects aligned with the country’s medium-term development roadmap. Projects involving extensive roadworks and improvements to urban transit systems have significantly increased the nation’s consumption of bitumen. Nonetheless, domestic production capacity appears insufficient to fully satisfy this heightened demand, pushing the country to rely more heavily on imported supplies from neighboring markets. This growing gap between supply and demand is sparking concerns about the long-term stability of the market unless investments are made to expand refining capacity or improve the diversity of supply chains.
In contrast, Indonesia is currently experiencing a downtrend in bitumen consumption. This is largely attributed to a temporary standstill in major public construction efforts and an excess of existing inventory. Additionally, competitive pressures from exporters in regions such as South Asia and the Middle East have contributed to suppressed prices within the Indonesian market. Despite the short-term slowdown, the country maintains a central role in regional trade, supported by its established refining assets and historical market presence. Industry participants are now adjusting their approaches in anticipation of third-quarter project disbursements and any potential regulatory changes.
Vietnam, on the other hand, has maintained a relatively steady course. Bitumen imports and usage remained consistent throughout the month, supported by stable implementation of infrastructure programs funded by the government. No significant disruptions were recorded in July, and the market sustained demand through ongoing highway upgrades and the expansion of industrial areas. Vietnam’s import sources remained diverse, with regular shipments arriving from Singapore, South Korea, and refineries in the Middle East.
In summary, Malaysia’s market is under pressure from robust demand outpacing supply, Indonesia is contending with sluggish activity and high stock levels, while Vietnam continues to exhibit a balanced outlook. These evolving national trends point to a more fragmented and nuanced bitumen landscape across Southeast Asia as the region moves through the second half of 2025.
By Bitumenmag
Bitumen, Price, Market
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