Market Report
1. Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) Market Analysis
- This week, China’s TiO₂ market recorded price increases equivalent to USD 28–98/ton, driven mainly by rising sulfuric acid and ilmenite costs.
- Producers continue to face significant cost pressure and negative margins, particularly for sulfate-route production, where sulfuric acid cost escalation is severe.
- Large TiO₂ manufacturers raised new-order quotations, though most plants remain focused on fulfilling existing contracts.
- Downstream demand is still sluggish, but producers are maintaining firm pricing thanks to strong upstream cost support and expectations of further production adjustments.
- Market sentiment remains cautious as buyers await major tender results for the month.
| Product | Price Range (USD/MT) | Change vs Last Week |
|---|---|---|
| Rutile-grade TiO₂ (incl. tax) | $1,930 – $2,010 | No change |
| Anatase-grade TiO₂ (incl. tax) | $1,760 – $1,850 | No change |
2. Titanium Dioxide Pigment Market Trends
- Sulfuric acid costs continued to rise, further increasing pressure on sulfate-route producers.
- Industry operating rates are uneven: some plants restarted production, while others initiated maintenance due to high costs.
- New-order demand remains soft, but pigment producers are holding prices firm because upstream raw material costs continue to escalate.
- The market is currently in a wait-and-see stage ahead of major downstream tenders.
3. Market Forecast
- Cost Support: Rising sulfuric acid and ilmenite costs will continue to form the main driver supporting firm TiO₂ pricing.
- Supply Adjustments: Maintenance shutdowns and fluctuating operating rates may tighten supply and support stable-to-firm prices.
- Demand Weakness: Downstream demand in coatings, plastics, and chemicals remains weak, limiting strong upward momentum.
- Short-Term Outlook: TiO₂ prices are expected to stay firm or rise modestly under ongoing cost-push pressure.
- For more reports: TiO₂ Market Report
