Current maritime trade disruptions are affecting the cost and availability of bitumen and related materials across Australia’s road construction and maintenance sector.

The Australian Flexible Pavement Association (AfPA) has issued a formal industry statement addressing the supply chain constraints and cost pressures now affecting Australia’s flexible pavement sector.
Disruption to maritime trade has triggered global supply chain realignment, with direct consequences for bitumen availability and pricing in Australia. The sector is actively sourcing bitumen from alternative global markets; however, supply is tightening and material cost increases are anticipated.

AfPA’s statement covers the following key areas:

• The current status of global bitumen supply and shipping disruption
• The impact on bitumen, diesel, asphalt production, spray seal, and related hydrocarbon products
• Important information for road authorities regarding Australian bitumen specification requirements
• AfPA’s position on coordinated industry response

AfPA’s statement calls for open, transparent, and early communication between road authorities, contractors, and suppliers as the sector navigates current conditions together.

[Download the full AfPA Industry Statement — March 2026]

AfPA monitors the situation closely and will publish further updates as conditions develop. Members and stakeholders are welcome to contact AfPA directly for further information.