Market Report
1. Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) Market Analysis
- This week China’s titanium dioxide market entered a clear price rally, with 27 producers issuing price increase announcements led by top manufacturers of titanium dioxide.
- The price adjustments were mainly driven by rising production costs, including sharply higher sulfuric acid prices and firm ilmenite raw material costs.
- Maintenance shutdowns at several titanium dioxide plants in February reduced supply, while producer inventories remained relatively low.
- Export orders continued to perform well and market sentiment strengthened as the traditional “March–April” peak demand season approaches.
| Product | Price Index (9th Week, 2026) |
|---|---|
| Rutile | 106 to 107 |
| Anatase | 108 to 109 |
Price Index Methodology: The Price Index is calculated based on the average prices of the top 10 producers in China, with the base value set at 100 as of January 1, 2026.
2. Titanium Dioxide Pigment Market Trends
- Sulfuric acid prices rose significantly this week, increasing by about USD 7–14/ton, with some regions rising by over USD 28/ton.
- Rising sulfur prices pushed sulfuric acid production costs higher, while maintenance shutdowns at several acid plants further tightened supply.
- Strong seasonal fertilizer demand and gradual recovery in chemical industry consumption supported sulfuric acid sales and reinforced cost pressure for sulfate-route titanium dioxide producers.
Freight Market Update
- Container freight rates on Asia–Europe routes are showing upward adjustments as major carriers begin implementing new FAK rate increases.
- Recent announcements indicate 20’ container rates increasing to approximately USD 1,565–1,800 and 40’ container rates reaching around USD 2,610–3,000 for early March shipments.
- Further rate adjustments effective mid-March could lift 20’ container levels to about USD 1,750–2,400 and 40’ containers to approximately USD 3,100–4,000, depending on carrier and route.
- The increases are mainly driven by rising global fuel costs and tightening vessel capacity, which may add logistics pressure for export shipments.
3. Market Forecast
- Rising sulfuric acid costs and firm ilmenite prices will continue to support titanium dioxide pricing.
- With the upcoming peak demand season in coatings and plastics industries, downstream demand may gradually improve.
- The titanium dioxide market is expected to remain firm, with further price increases possible if cost pressure continues.
Market Notice: Due to high market volatility, prices are subject to frequent adjustments.
For the most accurate and up-to-the-minute data, please consult
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- For more reports: TiO₂ Market Report
