Kazakhstan could import 500,000 tonnes of bitumen from Russia in 2024 - ministry

ASTANA. Oct 31 (Interfax) - Kazakhstan plans to import 500,000 tonnes of bitumen from Russia this year and discuss supplies for 2025, the Kazakh Energy Ministry told Interfax.

The ministry said Kazakhstan was capable of producing 1.2 million tonnes of bitumen per year, while total demand is 1 million tonnes. Actual production is lower due to a lack of raw materials.

Demand for bitumen in 2025 is also expected to be 1 million tonnes, which will be covered by domestic production of 1.2 million tonnes.

In addition, the ministry plans to hold "new negotiations with the Russian side to conclude an indicative balance for 2025".

A bitumen shortage in Kazakhstan is not inevitable, the ministry said.