In the United States, the pricing dynamics of Titanium Dioxide have displayed a volatile pattern. Early in the third quarter, Titanium Dioxide prices experienced a significant decline due to reduced inquiries from the downstream Paints and Coatings sector. Additionally, in response to a sluggish Chinese market, manufacturers lowered prices for importing nations like Thailand, the USA, and Brazil. Concerning production, downstream manufacturing firms faced pressure amid subdued demand from the terminal market. The availability of Titanium Dioxide was adequate to meet demand from the downstream construction and automotive industries. However, in the latter half of the third quarter, Titanium Dioxide prices experienced an upward trend following increased offers from the Chinese markets. According to market participants, the upstream Titanium Concentrate prices rose, contributing to the heightened offers for Titanium Dioxide. Moreover, persistent labor shortages continued to impact the US market. Towards the end of the third quarter, active demand from the downstream construction sector bolstered market sentiments and led downstream manufacturers to increase procurement of Titanium Dioxide. The ChemAnalyst database indicated that Titanium Dioxide 98% CFR USGC prices concluded at USD 2530 per ton at the close of the third quarter.
The pricing of Titanium Dioxide has lingered at the lower end within the domestic market of Belgium. The diminished demand from the downstream Paints and Coating sector has negatively impacted the market sentiments surrounding Titanium Dioxide in Belgium. According to market participants, persistent inflationary pressures have eroded the purchasing power of end-use industries in the European market throughout Q3. In August, the holiday season in Europe disrupted trade activities, further dampening demand from the downstream construction sector. This prompted manufacturers to release inventories at lower prices to safeguard their profit margins. Additionally, in terms of production, manufacturing companies have operated at reduced capacities to maintain market equilibrium. According to data from Statistics Belgium, Belgium’s industrial production contracted by 2.2% year-on-year in August 2023, reflecting tepid demand from downstream industries. The Manufacturing Purchasing Manager Index also settled in the contraction zone. Overall, the movement of finished goods remained unhindered, and freight charges remained at lower levels amid a slowdown in global trade volumes. Consequently, Titanium Dioxide 98% FD Antwerp prices were settled at USD 3450 per ton in September.
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