Market Report
1. Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) Market Analysis
- China’s titanium dioxide market remained stable during the seasonal off-peak period, with most producers focusing on fulfilling existing orders rather than pushing new sales.
- Domestic demand softened as some downstream plants in northern China gradually entered holiday shutdowns, while earlier demand had already been partially front-loaded.
- Despite weak spot transactions, inventory levels at producers remain low, providing underlying support to current TiO₂ prices.
| Product | Price Range (USD/MT) | Change vs Last Week |
|---|---|---|
| Rutile-grade TiO₂ (incl. tax) | $1,970 – $2,050 | Stable |
| Anatase-grade TiO₂ (incl. tax) | $1,800 – $1,890 | Stable |
2. Titanium Dioxide Pigment Market Trends
- Cost pressure remains significant. Although sulfuric acid prices showed mixed regional adjustments, overall price levels stayed high, keeping sulfate-route TiO₂ production costs elevated.
- High ilmenite and sulfuric acid costs continue to limit producers’ pricing flexibility, discouraging aggressive discounting.
- Export demand remains relatively healthy, helping offset weak domestic consumption and supporting operating stability.
- Top titanium dioxide manufacturers (“钛白龙企”, including LB Group) are expected to release new policy signals later this month, reinforcing market caution.
3. Market Forecast
- Short-term upward signals are emerging. Chloride-route TiO₂ prices may increase as early as next week, supported by cost-side pressure and tight upstream supply.
- Ilmenite prices are also likely to edge higher, further raising production costs and strengthening price support for TiO₂.
- However, February trading activity may slow sharply due to the Lunar New Year holiday, potentially leading to a temporary pause in market transactions.
- During the holiday period, attention will shift to raw-material price movements, particularly sulfuric acid and ilmenite, which may set the tone for post-holiday TiO₂ pricing.
- For more reports: TiO₂ Market Report