Armenia is facing a shortage of bitumen, a key material used in asphalt production, as supplies from Russia have reportedly almost come to a halt.

The country had previously relied mainly on Russian imports to meet its demand for bitumen. However, deliveries have sharply declined, creating difficulties for road construction projects, according to Sputnik Armenia.

The shortage has already affected roadworks in Armenia’s Ararat and Armavir provinces. Projects that began during the summer have reportedly been left unfinished because of the lack of raw materials.

Iran is being considered as an alternative source of bitumen. However, specialists told Armenian media that the quality of Iranian bitumen is considered inferior.