Overview of Bitumen 60/70 and Its Global Demand
Bitumen 60/70 is a penetration-grade bitumen commonly used in road construction and asphalt pavement. With its optimal balance between hardness and flexibility, bitumen 60/70 is a preferred grade for tropical and subtropical climates, such as Yemen’s. This grade of bitumen is derived from the vacuum distillation of crude oil and is characterized by a penetration value between 60 and 70 deci-millimeters.
As infrastructure development surges across the Middle East, particularly in war-torn and rebuilding nations like Yemen, the demand for reliable bitumen 60/70 suppliers has escalated. Countries like Iran and UAE, and companies like Aljabal Holding, play a pivotal role in bridging this demand-supply gap.
Aljabal Holding – Leading the Bitumen Supply Chain
Aljabal Holding has built a reputable name in the global petrochemical export sector, with a strong presence in bitumen trade and export logistics. With years of experience in managing complex shipping operations and adhering to international quality standards, the company ensures timely and compliant deliveries worldwide.
In October 2025, Aljabal Holding successfully executed an export shipment of bitumen 60/70 to Yemen, marking a crucial milestone in the rebuilding efforts of Yemeni infrastructure. This report outlines the specifics of the shipment, emphasizing Aljabal’s logistical expertise and commitment to quality.
Details of the Bitumen 60/70 Export Shipment
Shipment Date and Destination
The export operation took place in October 2025, with the consignment heading directly to major ports in Aden and Al Hudaydah, Yemen. These ports serve as critical entry points for construction materials destined for national infrastructure and highway rehabilitation projects.
Quantity and Packaging Specifications
- Total Volume: 2,000 Metric Tons
- Packaging Type: New steel drums
- Drum Size: 180 ± 2 kg per drum
- Total Drums Shipped: Approximately 11,111
- Containerized Load: 20-foot containers with 110 drums per container
Aljabal Holding ensures each drum is leak-proof, coated internally to prevent rusting, and precisely weighed for customs compliance and operational efficiency.
Quality Standards and Certifications
The bitumen supplied adhered to the ASTM D946 standard with detailed testing and quality analysis. Below are the technical specifications provided with the shipment:
| Property | Specification | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Penetration @25°C | 60–70 dmm | ASTM D5 |
| Softening Point °C | Min. 49°C | ASTM D36 |
| Ductility @25°C | Min. 100 cm | ASTM D113 |
| Flash Point | Min. 232°C | ASTM D92 |
| Solubility in Trichloroethylene | Min. 99% | ASTM D2042 |
Every batch was accompanied by a Certificate of Quality (COQ) and a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), ensuring transparency and safety throughout the logistics chain.
Shipping Route and Logistics Coordination
The route for the October 2025 shipment was carefully chosen to mitigate geopolitical risks and ensure on-time delivery. The cargo departed from Jebel Ali Port, UAE, with a transit time of 6–8 days to reach Yemeni ports.
Key Transit Points:
- Departure Port: Jebel Ali Port, UAE
- Destination Ports: Aden Port & Al Hudaydah
- Transit Time: ~7 days
- Customs Clearance: Handled by Aljabal’s Yemen-based clearing agents
Customs and Regulatory Compliance
Navigating the customs protocols in Yemen requires up-to-date documentation and strict adherence to regional import regulations. Aljabal Holding leveraged its in-house compliance team and Yemen-based partners to ensure:
- Import Permits and End-User Certifications
- Pre-Shipment Inspection Reports
- Conformity Certifications for Quality
- Duty and Tax Documentation Prepared in Advance
This meticulous preparation prevented any delays or detentions, ensuring a smooth clearance process on arrival.
Client: Government-Approved Contractor in Yemen
The shipment was commissioned by a government-approved contractor working under the Ministry of Public Works and Highways in Yemen. This partnership underlines the strategic importance of the shipment in national infrastructure projects.
The contractor aims to use the imported bitumen 60/70 for:
- Rehabilitation of the Sana’a to Al Hudaydah highway
- Resurfacing of damaged arterial roads in Taiz
- Ongoing maintenance projects in Aden’s urban zones
Impact of the Shipment on Yemeni Infrastructure
Yemen has faced years of conflict and underdeveloped infrastructure. This bulk shipment of bitumen 60/70 contributes significantly to:
- Paving and road construction projects
- Job creation for local asphalt mixing plants and labor
- Reopening critical transport corridors in post-conflict zones
- Lower transportation costs for humanitarian aid routes
Aljabal’s contribution supports not just economic revival, but also humanitarian access across the nation.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations
Aljabal Holding ensures that all bitumen packaging and transportation methods follow environmental best practices. Key sustainability features include:
- Use of recyclable steel drums
- Low-sulfur bitumen meeting Euro IV/V emission standards
- Bulk containerization to minimize carbon footprint per metric ton
- ISO 14001:2015 certified shipping protocols
Challenges Faced and Overcome
Shipping into Yemen comes with inherent risks:
- Security risks in port zones
- Customs unpredictability
- Piracy threats in the Red Sea corridor
Aljabal’s operational team coordinated with regional shipping insurers, local logistics partners, and port authorities to mitigate these risks, ensuring a safe and timely delivery.
Future Export Plans to Yemen and Beyond
This successful October 2025 shipment paves the way for a continued export schedule to Yemen. Aljabal Holding is committed to:
- Increasing shipment volume to 5,000 MT/month in 2026
- Setting up local bitumen storage terminals in Yemen
- Expanding trade routes into East Africa, Somalia, and Ethiopia
With demand rising steadily, Aljabal continues to be a reliable supplier of bitumen 60/70, particularly for conflict-recovery and developmental regions.
Conclusion
The October 2025 bitumen 60/70 export to Yemen by Aljabal Holding marks a significant milestone in post-conflict infrastructure support. By delivering top-grade bitumen in compliance with international standards, Aljabal once again demonstrates its capability in managing complex logistics and regulatory frameworks. As Yemen works toward rebuilding its roadways and cities, Aljabal Holding remains a trusted partner in that journey.
