Market Report

1. Price Trends in January

• Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Pigment prices showed an increase, especially in small and medium-sized mines, with a rise of approximately $4.22 per ton.
• The transaction prices for 46,10 ilmenite were between approximately $316.44 – $320.89 per ton, while 47,20 ilmenite prices were approximately $330.67 – $349.37 per ton.
• Non-tax quotations for ilmenite in the Southwest of China ranged between approximately $222.40 – $225.05 per ton.

2. Market Influences

• The market was influenced by an increase in ilmenite issued by Panyu Steel.
• Supply of ilmenite remained tight, while the downstream demand for titanium dioxide remained stable.
• Downstream enterprises increased their stockpiling in anticipation of the Spring Festival.

3. Import Data

• Imported ilmenite market performed well with Mozambique ilmenite prices at approximately $58.42 per ton, and Australian ilmenite market prices at around $54.85 per ton.

4. TiO2 Pigment Market Dynamics

• This week, the TiO2 pigment market welcomed another price increase wave, with a market increase of approximately $70.34 – $98.48 per ton.
• The factory prices for rutile type TiO2 pigment ranged from approximately $2112.76 – $2463.55 per ton, while anatase type TiO2 pigment prices were between $2110.91 – $2181.39 per ton.
• The export market remained robust, with a price increase of about $28 per ton at a lower price point.

5. February Outlook

• TiO2 Pigment supply continues to be tight with high ilmenite costs, leading to expectations of a price increase.
• High ilmenite prices are increasing production costs for sponge titanium.
• With a low TiO2 Pigment inventory and high ilmenite costs, a potential increase in price is anticipated.