Bitumen shortage drives up asphalt prices in Estonia

A shortage of bitumen has raised asphalt prices in Estonia and delayed some planned roadworks, ERR reported. Work already under way in Tallinn and on state roads will be completed, but some projects are being postponed.

Two of Tallinn’s contractors told the city that asphalt had become more expensive. The city will finish only repairs already nearing completion, including work on Liivalaia Street. Projects planned for Viljandi maantee and Vabaõhumuuseumi tee will not begin before winter, Deputy Mayor Kristjan Järvan said. He said asphalt prices had risen by about 10% in a week and were expected to increase further.

Estonia imports bitumen from Swedish company Nynas and Orlen, a Polish company based in Lithuania. Nynas has said it will not supply Estonia with bitumen again this year. Trev-2 chief Sven Pertens said Orlen initially delivered bitumen irregularly, causing temporary supply problems, but asphalt is now being produced in Estonia.

Tariston has told the Centre for Defence Investments that a 72% increase in bitumen prices could mean postponing asphalt work at the Tapa military campus until next year. Planned work on state roads will continue because the Transport Administration adjusts contractor payments when bitumen prices rise or fall, said Mart Arusoo, head of the agency’s development department.