Sulphuric Acid Cost-Driven Titanium Dioxide Prices Continue Upward Trend [SMM Titanium Spot Market Report]

SMM reported on September 9 that the mainstream quotation range for rutile titanium dioxide was 12,600-13,200 yuan/mt, with the average FOB export price at $1,850/mt. The price of anatase titanium dioxide was quoted at 11,500-11,800 yuan/mt, while chloride-process titanium dioxide was quoted at 14,500-15,500 yuan/mt, with the average FOB export price at $2,090/mt.

The titanium dioxide market showed an upward trend today. The high price of sulphuric acid also supported the cost of sulphuric acid-process titanium dioxide, keeping prices firm. With the opening of the coatings exhibition, market demand in September is expected to continue to be released. Coupled with the gradual digestion of inventory, some previously suspended manufacturers are actively preparing production resumption plans, and prices are expected to further increase in September.

Recently, an accident occurred at the sulphuric acid production line of LB Xiangyang Titanium Industry, a subsidiary of LB Group, leading to a full shutdown for maintenance. The plant has an annual capacity of approximately 150,000 mt, which is expected to exert some pressure on short-term titanium dioxide supply.