Introduction
In January 2026, AlJabal Holding successfully continued its strategic operations in the African market with a significant shipment of Bitumen 60/70 to Sudan. The second part of this shipment—comprising 25 containers, each 20 feet in size—marked a major milestone for the company’s supply chain in East Africa. This report dives into the core details of the shipment, highlighting its significance, logistical handling, quality control, and the strategic value of the Sudanese market for industrial-grade bitumen.
This wasn’t just a logistics move; it was a calculated step to reinforce long-term partnerships, ensure supply continuity, and support the booming infrastructure development taking place across Sudan. Let’s unpack the essential elements of this shipment in greater detail.
Overview of the Shipment
Shipment Type and Specification
The shipment in question consisted of 25 x 20-foot containers filled with penetration grade Bitumen 60/70, an industry-standard material used primarily in road construction and waterproofing. Each container was filled with drums of bitumen, adhering to international packing standards.
Client and Destination
The consignee was a Sudan-based civil engineering group engaged in highway projects financed by both government and private investors. The final destination was Port Sudan, with inland transport arranged to Khartoum and adjoining development sites.
This shipment is a continuation of a phased delivery, making it the second segment of a multi-batch supply agreement signed in late 2025 between AlJabal Holding and Sudanese infrastructure agencies.
About AlJabal Holding
Company Background
AlJabal Holding is a leading exporter and distributor of petrochemical products, especially bitumen and industrial lubricants. Based in the UAE, the company has established a firm foothold in the African, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian markets.
Market Reputation
With over two decades of expertise, AlJabal has earned a reputation for reliability, compliance, and quality assurance. Its clientele ranges from government-backed infrastructure projects to multinational construction firms—making it a trusted name in the global bitumen trade.
What is Bitumen 60/70?
Definition and Properties
Bitumen 60/70 refers to the penetration grade bitumen used in paving applications. The numbers indicate the penetration range (60 to 70 deci-millimeters) at standard conditions, representing a balance between softness and hardness—ideal for road surfacing under moderate climates.
Common Uses
- Road construction and paving
- Airport runways
- Waterproofing membranes
- Industrial applications
Its durability, cost-efficiency, and performance under varying temperatures make it a staple for infrastructure development in developing economies like Sudan.
Shipment Details
Total Shipment Volume
The complete shipment consisted of 200 containers, delivered in four parts. The second part—highlighted in this report—accounted for 25 containers containing approximately 500 metric tons of Bitumen 60/70.
Breakdown of the Second Part
Each 20-foot container held 200 drums, with each drum carrying 180 kg of bitumen. This configuration ensures optimum weight distribution and efficiency during sea and inland transport.
Packaging and Container Specifications
20 ft Container Standard
Standard 20-foot containers were chosen due to their compatibility with most port handling systems in Sudan and optimal cost-to-volume ratio. Each container complied with ISO 668 standards.
Packaging Type and Quantity
- Drums per container: 200
- Weight per drum: 180 kg
- Net weight per container: 36 metric tons
- Total drums in second shipment: 5,000
Drums were made of new steel with anti-rust coating, heat-sealed, and labeled according to international hazardous goods transport protocols.
Port of Origin and Departure Details
Departure Port Information
The shipment was dispatched from Jebel Ali Port, Dubai, which is a key logistics hub for outbound goods to Africa. This port was selected due to its high-frequency vessel schedules to the Red Sea.
Loading Date and Schedule
The second shipment was loaded on January 12, 2026, and sailed under Bill of Lading No. AJH-BIT-2026-02. AlJabal used a bulk and container shipping combination to optimize freight cost and schedule adherence.
Arrival and Delivery in Sudan
Port of Entry in Sudan
The shipment arrived at Port Sudan on January 24, 2026. This port serves as the country’s primary maritime gateway and has the facilities to handle containerized petrochemical imports.
Estimated Time of Arrival
The vessel adhered to its 12-day sea transit window. Inland transport took an additional 4 days, reaching the final delivery sites by January 28, 2026.
Logistics and Freight Handling
Transportation Method
A multimodal transport system was used, involving:
- Ocean freight from Dubai to Port Sudan
- Trucking from Port Sudan to final destinations in Khartoum and surrounding regions
Freight Forwarding Partner
AlJabal collaborated with Maersk Logistics for ocean transport and Nile Transports Ltd. for inland freight within Sudan, ensuring a seamless supply chain experience.
Customs and Documentation
Clearance Procedures
All containers were pre-cleared through Sudanese customs using electronic submissions. Required documents included:
- Commercial invoice
- Certificate of origin
- MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)
- Quality assurance certificate
- Bill of lading
Compliance with Sudanese Import Regulations
The shipment met all local regulations regarding hazardous materials and petroleum-based products. Import duties and VAT were pre-settled under a bonded arrangement to speed up clearance.
Quality Control Measures
Laboratory Testing
Samples from the bitumen shipment underwent lab tests both in Dubai and in Sudan. Parameters tested:
- Penetration value
- Softening point
- Ductility
- Flashpoint
Certification and Inspection
Third-party inspection was carried out by SGS Middle East, with a full Quality Certificate issued before departure. On-arrival inspections in Sudan confirmed consistency and compliance.
HS Code and Classification
International Tariff Codes
The bitumen was classified under HS Code: 27132000 — Petroleum bitumen. This classification is universally accepted and simplifies both export and import documentation.
Relevance to Sudanese Customs
Sudanese authorities use this HS code for tariff calculation and VAT assessment. Consistency in classification ensures transparency and prevents delays.
Strategic Importance of Sudan as a Market
Economic Overview
Despite economic hurdles, Sudan’s infrastructure sector is gaining momentum. Investment in roads, bridges, and housing has seen a surge due to regional development programs and foreign funding.
Bitumen Demand in Infrastructure
With thousands of kilometers of roads under rehabilitation or construction, the demand for bitumen in Sudan is expected to grow 8-12% annually over the next 5 years.
AlJabal Holding’s timely entry ensures it secures long-term supply contracts and expands its footprint in East Africa.
Challenges and Risk Mitigation
Regional and Political Concerns
Sudan’s fluctuating political climate and currency issues present logistical and financial risks. However, AlJabal manages these through:
- Local partnerships
- Prepayment arrangements
- Shipment insurance
Risk Management Strategies
Use of third-party quality checks, bonded warehousing, and dedicated local agents minimizes potential disruptions.
Sustainability Practices by AlJabal
Eco-Friendly Packaging
Drums are recyclable and comply with green standards for petrochemical transport. AlJabal has phased out old plastic lining and transitioned to low-impact coating materials.
Carbon Footprint Reduction
The company uses optimized routing, consolidated shipments, and participates in carbon offset programs, aligning with ESG goals.
Client Testimonials and Feedback
Feedback from Sudanese project engineers and procurement officers emphasized:
- High product consistency
- On-time delivery
- Responsive customer support
A client noted: “AlJabal’s bitumen quality significantly reduced our asphalt processing time—truly reliable partners.”
Conclusion
The second installment of AlJabal Holding’s bitumen shipment to Sudan in January 2026 reinforces the company’s commitment to quality, timely delivery, and regional collaboration. As Sudan’s infrastructure needs continue to grow, strategic partnerships like these lay the foundation for long-term growth, sustainability, and mutual economic benefit.
FAQs
1. What is the penetration grade of Bitumen 60/70 used for?
It is mainly used for road construction, offering a balanced blend of hardness and flexibility for various climates.
2. How many drums were in the second part of the shipment?
5,000 drums, each weighing 180 kg, spread across 25 containers.
3. Where did the shipment originate?
From Jebel Ali Port, Dubai, UAE.
4. How was the quality of the bitumen verified?
Through SGS-inspected lab tests and compliance certificates.
5. What makes AlJabal Holding a reliable supplier?
Consistent product quality, international certifications, efficient logistics, and customer-oriented service.
