Market Report

1. Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Market Analysis

• The titanium dioxide market remains volatile. As of late April, the price for sulfuric acid rutile-type titanium dioxide in China was approximately $1,947-$2,125 per ton, while sulfuric acid anatase-type titanium dioxide was priced at around $1,809-$1,892 per ton. Chloride process rutile-type titanium dioxide was priced at $2,111-$2,355 per ton.
• Overall demand has not met expectations, leading to significant pricing pressure. Top manufacturers, including the LB Group, have maintained stable prices, though some companies have reduced prices due to rising inventories and export challenges.
• High raw material costs have contributed to substantial cost pressures for producers, resulting in decreased production rates across the market. The market is characterized by high inventory levels and weak domestic demand.

2. Titanium Dioxide Pigment Market Trends

• The titanium dioxide pigment market has been affected by weak demand and rising inventory levels. Some companies adjusted prices downward in late April to alleviate inventory pressures, contributing to a chaotic pricing environment.
• Despite the high costs of raw materials, production has been curtailed due to large inventory pressures and sluggish demand. Enterprises have initiated maintenance shutdowns, leading to reduced production output.
• Export challenges, including anti-dumping investigations from the EU, India, and Brazil, have further pressured domestic titanium dioxide prices. Companies are finding limited room for price reductions due to these external pressures.

3. Market Forecast

• Weak downstream demand is expected to persist, continuing to apply pressure on market prices.
• With the current market dynamics, titanium dioxide prices are anticipated to remain weak through May.
• Although raw material costs remain high, the ongoing imbalance in demand and supply dynamics will likely keep prices subdued.