Stability in the French bitumen market

The French bitumen market is seeing a shift in supply dynamics. Higher availability is meeting much lower demand right now.

Supply and demand trends

Recent months saw prices climb due to regional tensions. War concerns in Iran pushed costs higher earlier this year. Demand also fell after the spring holidays passed. Many regional players had already built up large stocks. These stocks were accumulated throughout March and April.
Extra spot availability has also reassured regional buyers. They now feel that supply will remain quite adequate. This abundance has helped to lower domestic truck prices.

Shifts in the French bitumen market

The northwest region is seeing much better availability.
The Repsol-operated terminal in Nantes is providing more stock. This facility features three storage tanks of 4,000 tonnes.
It is supplied by the Tarragona refinery in Spain. That refinery is a joint venture between Repsol and Moeve. Tarragona exported roughly 12,000 tonnes to France in April. Prices from Nantes are around 600 to 610 euros. These prices are quoted ex-works from the terminal.

Refinery activity and maintenance

Some tightness is expected in the western region soon.
The Donges refinery will undergo two months of maintenance. This project starts in mid-May and affects TotalEnergies.
In the north, supply issues are finally resolving. The Port Jerome refinery had limited output recently. Output from this 236,000 b/d refinery has now resumed. Spot offers in the north are also quite competitive. They currently range between 600 and 610 euros.

Eastward flows and imports

Germany’s Miro refinery has also increased its flows. Deliveries from the Miro plant are becoming cheaper. Prices fell by 18 to 20 euros for May. The refinery is a key supplier for eastern France. It previously focused on middle distillate output. This occurred after crude prices surged in March. For those who need expert consultation, Gulf Petro Vision offers reliable support in this field.
Import volumes have also remained relatively stable.France saw 153,000 tonnes imported recently. Argus recently assessed domestic prices in the north.

Impact on the French bitumen market

The price range is now 575 to 590 euros. This represents a 15 euro drop from last week. Overall, the French bitumen market remains quite stable.Supply and demand are finding a new balance.