Introduction
Iran remains one of the world's largest bitumen exporters and continues to play a critical role in supplying markets across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. As demand for infrastructure development and road construction projects increases globally, traders and buyers closely monitor Iranian bitumen prices to identify the best purchasing opportunities.
Today's Iranian bitumen market is influenced by refinery production levels, vacuum bottom pricing, exchange rate fluctuations, export demand, freight costs, and regional competition. Understanding these factors is essential for importers, contractors, and commodity traders seeking to optimize procurement decisions.
Current Situation of Iran's Bitumen Market
The Iranian bitumen market has shown relatively stable trading activity during recent weeks. Demand from international buyers remains steady, particularly from India, China, East Africa, and neighboring Middle Eastern countries.
Bitumen 60/70 continues to dominate export transactions due to its widespread use in road construction and asphalt production. Other grades such as 80/100, VG30, VG40, and oxidized bitumen also maintain strong demand in specialized applications.
Export-oriented suppliers continue to focus on FOB Bandar Abbas transactions, while CIF shipments remain dependent on vessel availability and freight market conditions.
Iran Bitumen Price Table
Table 1 — Iran Bitumen FOB Prices (May 2026)
|
Week
|
60/70 Drum (USD/MT)
|
60/70 Jumbo Bag (USD/MT)
|
60/70 Bulk (USD/MT)
|
|
Week 1 - May 2026
|
448 ± 10
|
431 ± 10
|
388 ± 10
|
|
Week 2 - May 2026
|
469 ± 10
|
450 ± 10
|
400 ± 10
|
|
Week 3 - May 2026
|
471 ± 10
|
451 ± 10
|
401 ± 10
|
|
Week 4 - May 2026
|
447 ± 10
|
423 ± 10
|
392 ± 10
|
Table 2 — Iran Bitumen Price Trend
|
Month
|
Drum
|
Jumbo Bag
|
Bulk
|
|
February 2026
|
355 ± 5
|
345 ± 5
|
300 ± 5
|
|
March 2026
|
383 ± 5
|
363 ± 5
|
348 ± 5
|
|
April 2026
|
430 ± 5
|
405 ± 5
|
386 ± 5
|
|
May 2026
|
448 ± 10
|
431 ± 10
|
388 ± 10
|
Prices may vary depending on order volume, refinery source, payment terms, and destination.
https://bitumenmag.com/Reports/iran-bitumen-price
Factors Affecting Bitumen Prices in Iran
Vacuum Bottom Costs
Vacuum Bottom (VB) remains the primary feedstock used for bitumen production in Iranian refineries. Any increase in VB prices directly impacts production costs and ultimately export quotations.
Exchange Rate Movements
The USD/IRR exchange rate remains one of the most important factors affecting market sentiment. Currency fluctuations can rapidly influence domestic pricing and exporter margins.
Refinery Production
Scheduled refinery maintenance, feedstock allocation, and production capacity utilization all affect available supply in the market. Lower output typically results in stronger prices.
Export Demand
Strong buying interest from Africa and Asia often supports market prices. During periods of active export demand, suppliers become less flexible in negotiations.
Freight and Logistics
Ocean freight rates, container availability, port congestion, and insurance costs can significantly impact final CIF prices even when FOB prices remain stable.
FOB vs CIF: Which Pricing Method Matters Most?
Many traders focus only on FOB prices when comparing suppliers. However, experienced buyers understand that the final landed cost is often more important than the initial FOB quotation.
A supplier offering a lower FOB price may ultimately become more expensive if loading delays, documentation issues, or freight costs increase the overall transaction cost.
Therefore, buyers should always evaluate:
- FOB Price
- Freight Cost
- Transit Time
- Port Charges
- Inspection Requirements
- Packaging Costs
before making purchasing decisions.
Export Opportunities for Iranian Bitumen
Iranian bitumen remains highly competitive in international markets due to its quality, refinery capacity, and strategic location.
Key export destinations include:
- India
- China
- United Arab Emirates
- Oman
- Kenya
- Tanzania
- Ethiopia
- Bangladesh
- Sri Lanka
Demand from these markets continues to support Iranian export activity despite ongoing market challenges.
Market Outlook
Current market indicators suggest that Iranian bitumen prices may remain firm in the short term. Any increase in crude oil prices, stronger export demand, or higher vacuum bottom costs could push prices upward.
Conversely, lower freight rates or weaker seasonal demand may create opportunities for buyers seeking more competitive pricing.
Traders should monitor:
- Crude oil prices
- Refinery feedstock costs
- Export demand trends
- Exchange rate movements
- Freight market developments
to better anticipate future price movements.
Conclusion
The Iranian bitumen market continues to offer attractive opportunities for international buyers and commodity traders. While pricing remains competitive compared to many regional suppliers, market participants should focus on total procurement costs rather than headline FOB prices alone.
Regular monitoring of refinery trends, export demand, freight costs, and currency movements will remain essential for making informed trading decisions in today's evolving bitumen market.
