China TiO₂ Market Forecast: Titanium Dioxide Price Weakens Under Slow Demand

Buyer Summary: The China TiO₂ market moved lower this week as weak downstream demand, slow new orders, and rising producer inventories increased price pressure. Although sulfuric acid costs remained high, weak transactions continued to weigh on Rutile TiO₂ and Anatase TiO₂ prices.

1. Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) Market Analysis

• The market remained in the off-season, with weak new order activity, rising producer inventories, and limited improvement in shipments even after price reductions.
• First-tier producer quotations stayed relatively firm, while second- and third-tier producer prices declined more sharply. Most transactions were negotiated on a case-by-case basis.
• China exported 152,800 tons of titanium dioxide in May 2026, up 12.63% year on year but down 21.05% month on month. From January to May 2026, cumulative exports reached around 883,100 tons, up 12.55% year on year.

Product	Price Index (23nd Week, 2026)
Anatase	135-133
Rutile	137-135

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 continued to rise and remained at high levels. Shandong 98% smelting acid prices were approximately USD 232-283/ton, Sichuan 98% smelting acid prices were approximately USD 269-298/ton, and Guangdong 98% pyrite-based acid prices were approximately USD 280-290/ton.
• High sulfuric acid costs continued to increase production pressure for TiO₂ producers, while weaker ferrous sulfate by-product prices further reduced producer margins.
• Despite cost pressure, weak downstream demand and rising inventories limited producers’ ability to hold prices, leading to a softer Titanium Dioxide Price trend.

3. Market Forecast

• The near-term TiO₂ Price Forecast remains cautious. Titanium dioxide prices are expected to stay stable-to-weaker due to slow demand and heavy shipment pressure.
• Rutile TiO₂ and Anatase TiO₂ transaction prices may remain flexible, especially among producers with higher inventory pressure.
• For buyers, need-based procurement is likely to remain suitable in the short term. It is important to compare supplier quotations, inventory pressure, and quotation validity before placing orders.

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 info@tinoxchem.de.

• For more reports: TiO₂ Market Report