Global Aerospace-Grade Titanium Sponge Supply Expands Despite Japanese Slowdown

Titanium Sponge

Higher utilization in Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia offsets Japan’s decline as China eyes industrial market growth

Global Titanium Sponge Output Rises in 2024

Titanium sponge production from aerospace-approved suppliers grew in 2024, reaching 89,000 metric tons — a 6% increase from 2023. This rise came despite a production decline in Japan, which was balanced by higher capacity utilization in Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and industry data confirm this upward trend, driven primarily by strategic expansion in the Middle East and Central Asia.

Japan's production fell to 55,000t in 2024, down from 57,000t in 2023. Inventory adjustments by domestic aerospace consumers were the primary cause. In contrast, Saudi Arabia's AMIC-Toho Titanium Metal ramped up output to 15,000t, nearing its 15,600 t/year capacity. Kazakhstan also maintained high utilization levels, strengthening its role as a stable sponge supplier for critical aerospace applications.

China Expands Industrial Market Footprint

While China’s titanium sponge remains unqualified for aerospace, its influence in industrial markets surged in 2024. Chinese production held steady at 220,000t, but capacity climbed to as much as 320,000 t/year, according to market participants. Japan’s imports of unwrought titanium from China rose sharply — from 451t in 2023 to 1,198t in 2024 — suggesting increased acceptance of Chinese sponge and ingot in industrial-grade production.

China’s growing presence is reshaping competition, particularly in Japan, where CP-grade metal demand dominates. Although Chinese sponge lacks aerospace certification, Metalnomist understands that select U.S. buyers are testing small volumes for future qualification — despite ongoing tariff uncertainties. The U.S. imported 1,068t of sponge from China in 2024, up from 154t the year before.

U.S. Aerospace Demand Softens Amid Boeing Constraints

U.S. titanium sponge imports from Japan declined in 2024 to 27,692t, down from 31,387t in 2023. This contraction reflects softer demand from American ingot melters due to lower-than-expected build rates for Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner and 737 Max programs. Persistent supply chain challenges further impacted intake, signaling a temporary slowdown in titanium conversion activity for aerospace.

Despite this, global titanium sponge markets remain dynamic. Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia continue to play a vital role in balancing supply, while China's push into the industrial sector could eventually redefine global sourcing strategies.