Trump Tariff Threat Fuels US Asphalt Supply Fears
The US asphalt market faces uncertainty as President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on Canadian imports could restrict supply and drive up prices for American buyers. Trump’s plan includes a 25% tariff on all imports from Canada and Mexico, set to take effect after his inauguration on January 20. While industry insiders speculate that the tariff […]
Southeast Asia’s Bitumen Market: Supply Surge vs. Mixed Demand
Bitumen markets in Southeast Asia are poised for a shift as increased export availability from South China meets a varied regional demand outlook for 2025, as reported by Argus Media. A combination of pent-up demand from delayed projects and new production initiatives could shape the market dynamics. Near-Term and 2025 Demand Prospects Pent-up demand from […]
Europe & UK Faces Energy Turmoil: Soaring Prices and Middle East’s Potential Role
Europe and the UK are grappling with escalating energy challenges as surging gas prices and concerns over renewable energy development dominate the agenda. In Europe, natural gas prices have surged to a one-year high of over €50/MWh, driven by colder-than-average weather, production outages, and below-average storage levels. EU gas storage is 71.8% full, falling short […]
Crude Hits the Gas as China Stirs the Pot and Winter Bites
Oil prices surged to their highest levels since October, fueled by Beijing’s economic stimulus spree and frosty weather boosting global fuel demand. Brent crude edged up by $0.15 to $76.66 per barrel early Monday, following a Friday close that marked its strongest since Oct. 14. Meanwhile, WTI crude gained $0.22 to $74.18, also hitting a […]
Brazil’s Asphalt Boom: 2025 Demand Set to Soar
Demand for asphalt in Brazil is forecast to remain robust in 2025, fueled by an ambitious slate of highway projects. The Ministry of Transportation has announced plans for 15 auctions, encompassing 7,000km of roadway projects across federal and state levels—up significantly from last year’s 10 auctions for 4,000km. This surge defies the usual trend of […]
India and Pakistan: Bitumen at a Crossroads
The bitumen market in the Indian subcontinent is a tale of two distinct yet interconnected narratives: India’s massive consumption driven by infrastructure needs and Pakistan’s evolving export dynamics. India: Growth Amid Financial Constraints India, the largest consumer of Middle Eastern-origin bitumen, has seen its annual consumption surpass 8 million tons in recent years. However, delayed […]
2025 Oil Outlook: A Bear’s Market or Analyst’s Breakout?
Oil markets are heading into 2025 under a mix of cautious optimism and looming challenges. While prices remained surprisingly stable throughout 2024, with West Texas Intermediate and Brent crude fluctuating minimally around $70 and $74 per barrel, respectively, next year could see significant shifts driven by a handful of key factors. Demand Dynamics: Spotlight on […]
Trump Eyes Broader Oil Sanctions on Iran
The incoming Trump administration is reportedly planning to expand sanctions on Iran’s oil sector, targeting not just crude exports but a wider range of petroleum products. This strategy aims to intensify economic pressure on Tehran by cutting off additional revenue streams. According to sources familiar with the matter, the new measures could include restrictions on […]
Singapore Port Shatters Records: 40 Million+ Containers Handled in 2024
Singapore’s port has once again demonstrated its dominance in global maritime logistics by handling over 40 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) in 2024, setting a new record. This milestone reinforces the port’s status as one of the world’s busiest and most efficient maritime hubs. The exceptional performance is attributed to Singapore’s strategic location, robust transshipment […]
North Africa Powers Up: Wind, Gas, and Green Hydrogen Lead the Charge!
North Africa is harnessing its diverse energy resources to tackle growing global demand, expand exports, and secure a sustainable future. Major projects across the region are redefining its role as a global energy hub. Egypt Takes Wind Energy to New Heights Egypt is propelling its renewable energy sector forward with the 10 GW […]
