Introduction
If roads could talk, they’d probably say one thing: quality matters. In December 2025, a major milestone was achieved in the Middle Eastern–Southeast Asian construction supply chain with the successful export of high-quality Bitumen 60/70 from Iraq to Malaysia. This wasn’t just another shipment—it was a carefully planned, technically sound, and market-driven operation led by Aljabal Holding.
Why does this matter? Because infrastructure doesn’t forgive shortcuts. When you’re paving highways under tropical rain and heavy traffic, you need materials that perform, not just promise.
Why Bitumen 60/70 Matters in Global Infrastructure
Bitumen 60/70 is one of the most widely used penetration-grade bitumen types in the world. Think of it as the “workhorse” of road construction—flexible enough to handle stress, yet strong enough to resist deformation. In countries like Malaysia, where high temperatures and humidity are the norm, this grade hits the sweet spot between durability and flexibility.
December 2025 – A Strategic Export Window
Timing is everything. December 2025 was chosen deliberately to align with Malaysia’s infrastructure planning cycles and favorable shipping conditions. It also allowed Iraqi producers to leverage stable production output before year-end, ensuring consistent quality and on-time delivery.
Overview of the Export Project
Exporting from Iraq to Malaysia – The Trade Corridor
The Iraq–Malaysia route is gaining momentum as a reliable energy and construction materials corridor. Iraq’s abundant bitumen resources, combined with Malaysia’s growing infrastructure needs, create a natural partnership.
Role of Aljabal Holding in the Supply Chain
Aljabal Holding acted as the project integrator—coordinating production, quality control, packaging, logistics, and delivery. Instead of fragmented responsibilities, the entire process was managed as one continuous pipeline, reducing risks and delays.
Understanding Bitumen 60/70
Technical Properties of Bitumen 60/70
Bitumen 60/70 is classified by its penetration value, which indicates hardness. It offers excellent adhesion to aggregates and strong resistance to wear.
Penetration Grade Explained
A penetration value between 60 and 70 (measured at 25°C) means the bitumen is neither too hard nor too soft—ideal for road surfaces exposed to moderate to high temperatures.
Performance in Tropical Climates
In Malaysia’s climate, Bitumen 60/70 maintains flexibility without bleeding, ensuring longer pavement life and reduced maintenance costs.
Why Jumbo Bags Were Chosen
Jumbo Bag Packaging vs Drum Packaging
Traditional steel drums have their place, but jumbo bags are changing the game—especially for bulk exports.
Cost Efficiency
Jumbo bags reduce packaging costs, optimize container space, and lower handling expenses at ports.
Environmental Advantages
Fewer steel drums mean less waste. Jumbo bags are easier to manage, store, and dispose of responsibly.
Production and Quality Control in Iraq
Sourcing High-Grade Iraqi Bitumen
The bitumen used in this shipment was sourced from well-established Iraqi refineries known for consistent penetration grades and low impurity levels.
Quality Assurance and Laboratory Testing
Every batch underwent rigorous testing, including penetration, softening point, ductility, and loss-on-heating tests. Only material meeting international standards was approved for export.
Packaging and Handling Process
Jumbo Bag Specifications
The jumbo bags used were heat-resistant, leak-proof, and designed specifically for hot bitumen filling.
Safety and Leakage Prevention
Strict temperature control during filling and reinforced liners ensured zero leakage during transit—a critical factor for long-distance shipping.
Logistics and Shipping to Malaysia
Inland Transport in Iraq
From refinery to port, the cargo moved via secured inland transport with real-time monitoring to avoid delays.
Port Handling and Sea Freight
Once at port, containers were loaded efficiently to minimize dwell time.
Transit Time and Route Optimization
Optimized sea routes ensured timely arrival, even during peak shipping season.
Customs and Documentation
Export Documentation from Iraq
All required documents—including Certificate of Origin, Quality Certificate, Packing List, and Bill of Lading—were prepared in advance to ensure smooth clearance.
Import Requirements in Malaysia
Compliance with Malaysian standards and customs regulations ensured hassle-free import and immediate onward distribution.
Delivery and Distribution in Malaysia
Port of Arrival
The shipment arrived at a major Malaysian port equipped for bulk construction materials.
Last-Mile Distribution to Contractors
From port to project site, distribution was handled swiftly, allowing contractors to begin work without delays.
Market Impact in Malaysia
Demand for Bitumen 60/70 in Malaysia
With ongoing highway upgrades and urban development, demand for reliable bitumen remains strong.
Competitive Advantages for Buyers
Buyers benefited from consistent quality, competitive pricing, and dependable delivery—no nasty surprises, no delays.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations
Reduced Waste with Jumbo Bags
Compared to drums, jumbo bags significantly cut down on packaging waste.
Carbon Footprint Optimization
Efficient loading and reduced material waste translated into lower overall emissions.
Challenges Faced and Solutions Implemented
Logistical Challenges
Coordinating multiple stages across borders is never simple. Proactive planning and local partnerships kept things moving.
Climate and Storage Concerns
Temperature-controlled handling ensured the bitumen arrived in perfect condition, ready for use.
Business Outcomes and Client Feedback
Performance Evaluation
The shipment met all technical and commercial benchmarks—on time, on spec, and on budget.
Client Satisfaction
Feedback from Malaysian clients highlighted product consistency, clean packaging, and professional coordination.
Strategic Importance of the December 2025 Shipment
Strengthening Iraq–Malaysia Trade Relations
This shipment reinforced trust and opened doors for long-term supply agreements.
Positioning for Future Contracts
Success in December 2025 positioned Aljabal Holding as a preferred supplier for future projects in Southeast Asia.
Conclusion
The December 2025 export of Bitumen 60/70 in jumbo bags from Iraq to Malaysia wasn’t just a shipment—it was a statement. A statement about quality, reliability, and smart logistics. By combining high-grade Iraqi bitumen with efficient packaging and end-to-end coordination, Aljabal Holding delivered real value to the Malaysian market. And if infrastructure is about building paths to the future, this project laid down a pretty solid one.
FAQs
1. Why is Bitumen 60/70 suitable for Malaysia?
Because it performs exceptionally well in tropical climates, offering durability without excessive softening.
2. What are the advantages of jumbo bag packaging?
Lower costs, reduced waste, easier handling, and better container utilization.
3. How is quality ensured before export?
Through comprehensive laboratory testing and strict quality control at the source.
4. Is Iraqi bitumen competitive in the global market?
Yes. It offers excellent quality-to-price ratio and consistent performance.
5. Will similar shipments be planned in the future?
Based on the success of this project, further exports to Malaysia and the region are highly likely.
