The global titanium dioxide (TiO₂) industry is facing significant trade tensions as anti-dumping investigations and tariffs continue to reshape market dynamics. In 2025, several key cases have reached critical stages, impacting supply chains, pricing, and regional competitiveness. Here’s an overview of the latest developments in major anti-dumping disputes involving TiO₂.
1. India’s Extended Anti-Dumping Duties on Chinese TiO₂
- Current Measures: India has extended its anti-dumping duties (ADD) on Chinese TiO₂ through 2026, with rates ranging from $180–220/ton.
- New Investigations: The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) is probing allegations of circumvention through Vietnam and Thailand, where Chinese TiO₂ is reprocessed and exported to India.
- Impact: Indian domestic TiO₂ prices remain 10–15% higher than global averages, benefiting local producers like Kerala Minerals but increasing costs for downstream industries.
2. European Union’s CBAM-Aligned Tariffs
- Integrated Approach: The EU has combined its anti-dumping policies with the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), imposing combined duties of €120–150/ton on Chinese sulfate-process TiO₂.
- Exemptions: Chloride-process TiO₂ from regions like Saudi Arabia and the U.S. remains exempt, creating opportunities for low-carbon producers.
- Outlook: The EU is reviewing duties annually based on environmental compliance, pushing Chinese producers to adopt greener technologies.
3. U.S. Scrutiny on Transshipment and Tariffs
- Section 301 Tariffs: The U.S. maintains 25% tariffs on Chinese TiO₂, with no near-term relief expected.
- Mexico Investigations: The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) is investigating transshipment of Chinese TiO₂ through Mexican facilities, with preliminary duties likely by late 2025.
- Domestic Impact: U.S. TiO₂ buyers are shifting to domestic suppliers (e.g., Chemours, Tronox) or alternative sources like the Middle East.
4. Southeast Asia’s Emerging Trade Barriers
- Vietnam: Imposed temporary anti-dumping duties (15–20%) on Chinese TiO₂ in early 2025 to protect domestic producer Vietnam TiO₂ Joint Stock.
- Indonesia: Considering an anti-dumping investigation following complaints from PT Citra Titanium Lestari about dumped Chinese anatase-grade TiO₂.
- Regional Shift: ASEAN buyers are increasingly sourcing from South Korea and Japan to avoid trade risks.
5. South America’s Protective Measures
- Brazil: Extended anti-dumping duties on Chinese TiO₂ for 5 years ($150–190/ton), citing threats to local industry.
- Argentina: Launched a new investigation targeting TiO₂ from China and Indonesia, focusing on paint-grade products.
6. Strategic Implications for the Industry
✔ Supply Chain Diversification: Buyers are turning to suppliers in Saudi Arabia, Australia, and Europe to mitigate risks.
✔ Localized Production: Major producers (e.g., LB Group, Kronos) are expanding in India and Southeast Asia to bypass tariffs.
✔ Cost Pressures: Anti-dumping duties add $150–300/ton to TiO₂ costs in affected markets, driving inflation in coatings and plastics.
7. Future Outlook
- WTO Challenges: China is contesting EU and Indian duties at the WTO, with rulings expected in 2026.
- New Cases: South Africa and Turkey may initiate investigations in H2 2025, further fragmenting global trade.
- Sustainability Link: Anti-dumping policies increasingly favor low-carbon TiO₂, accelerating the shift to chloride-process production.
Conclusion
Anti-dumping measures are redrawing the global TiO₂ trade map, emphasizing the need for strategic agility. Stakeholders must stay informed and adapt to evolving policies to maintain competitiveness.
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Post time: Aug-28-2025