Titanium Market Commentary: Supply Constraints Underpin Prices
The domestic titanium ore market is characterized by insufficient operating rates, with demand maintaining a tight balance. Prices are currently stable. Overall, raw material cost pressures and production cuts are defining features across the titanium value chain.
Titanium Slag
The tender price for high-titanium slag from northern enterprises in December settled at approximately 772.05 USD/ton, a decrease of about 7.15 USD/ton from November. Despite this slight price dip, the fundamental market condition remains challenging. The cost of raw materials for titanium slag production is firm, leading to production losses for manufacturers. Consequently, market operating rates are universally at low levels, indicating significant supply-side pressure.
Titanium Tetrachloride
The titanium tetrachloride market is quoted in a range of 686.13 USD/ton to 786.26 USD/ton. Market conditions are stable, although recent new order signings have been moderate. Supply has tightened, with reductions noted from enterprises in the Henan region and limited availability from the northeast. In the short term, these supply constraints are expected to keep titanium tetrachloride prices firm.
- Price Range: 686.13 – 786.26 USD/ton.
- Sentiment: Firm, supported by reduced supply.
Sponge Titanium
Sponge titanium prices are holding steady. Civil-grade (Grade 1) material is quoted around 6433.08 – 6718.57 USD/ton, while Grade 0 is quoted around 6575.66 – 6861.15 USD/ton. Downstream demand is relatively stable. Sponge titanium producers are busy fulfilling existing orders, and overall inventory levels are reported as healthy. This balance between steady demand and managed supply is supporting a temporarily stable market.
- Grade 1 (Civil): 6433.08 – 6718.57 USD/ton.
- Grade 0: 6575.66 – 6861.15 USD/ton.
Titanium Dioxide
The titanium dioxide price index rose by 2 points to 1885. New price lists from producers are being implemented. This week, the market is seeing robust foreign trade orders, while some domestic factories are focusing on destocking. The new order prices are being executed firmly. Looking ahead, some individual enterprises have planned maintenance shutdowns for January, which could influence future supply dynamics.