卓创资讯：Market bullish factors dominate, and this week's asphalt spot prices continue to rise

This week, the national average price of asphalt is 3,428.71 yuan/ton, up 67.72 yuan/ton or 2.01% compared to the previous week. Firstly, from the cost perspective, Middle East tensions and U.S. crude oil inventory drawdowns have kept crude oil prices generally strong and volatile, providing favorable support for spot asphalt prices. Secondly, from the supply and demand perspective, domestic asphalt plant operating rates continued to decline this week. Most northern regions mainly received and stored goods, with limited spot circulation in the asphalt market, resulting in a strong market sentiment to maintain prices. Additionally, some projects in South China and Southwest regions are still pushing forward, supporting scattered rigid demand for asphalt. Supported by positive market factors, the domestic asphalt market average price continued to rise this week. Looking ahead to next week, crude oil may fluctuate at high levels. As the Spring Festival holiday approaches, end-user demand for asphalt will drop to its lowest point of the year. Even if spot supply tightens, it is unlikely to strongly support the market. It is expected that spot asphalt prices will fluctuate and stabilize. (Zhuochuang Information)