Kazakhstan is considering easing restrictions on road bitumen exports after expanding domestic production enough to meet local demand.

The Ministry of Energy has published a draft order proposing an exception for road bitumen to the current ban on exports to countries outside the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). The proposal is open for public discussion until November 4, 2026, according to Qazinform News Agency.

According to the ministry, demand for road bitumen fluctuates with the seasons. When road construction slows, domestic producers can be left with surplus supplies and unused production capacity.

Allowing exports during the off-season could help manufacturers sell excess output to foreign markets while keeping Kazakhstan’s oil refineries operating steadily, the ministry said.

The proposal follows instructions issued by Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov during a visit to the Mangistau Region on July 23, 2026.

Kazakhstan’s increased production capacity has been supported by the expansion of the Caspi Bitum plant. The upgrade raised its annual oil processing capacity from 1 million to 1.5 million tonnes and increased road bitumen production from 500,000 to 750,000 tonnes a year.