China Titanium Consumption 2025 Rises as Export Challenges Persist

China Titanium, Xinnuo Titanium

China titanium consumption 2025 is expected to rise slightly, driven by demand from aerospace, electronics, and power industries. However, Chinese titanium producers continue to face significant export barriers in Western markets, especially the U.S. and EU, due to tariffs and certification hurdles.

Aerospace and 3C Sectors Lead Titanium Demand Growth

China consumed 151,000 tonnes of titanium mill products in 2024, up 1.6% year-on-year, according to CNIA-Ti. The aerospace sector recorded the largest growth, consuming 32,193 tonnes—an increase of 2,816 tonnes from 2023. The power industry followed, supported by growth in renewable energy, while 3C (computer, communication, and consumer electronics) demand rose by 10% to 11,000 tonnes, with Apple, Samsung, and Huawei sourcing parts from local suppliers.

Chemical applications remained the largest titanium-consuming sector at 48.5% of total demand, but usage in chemicals, ocean engineering, and salt manufacturing declined. Shipbuilding also saw steady growth, increasing consumption by 1,191 tonnes to 4,933 tonnes.

Titanium Sponge Output Rises, Led by China and Saudi Arabia

Global titanium sponge production increased by 12% in 2024 to 380,300 tonnes. China led with 256,000 tonnes, up 36%, accounting for 67% of global output. Saudi Arabia followed with a 17% rise to 15,000 tonnes. Japan’s sponge output declined 3.5% to 55,000 tonnes, while Ukrainian production remained at zero.

Russia's VSMPO-Avisma and Solikamsk produced between 20,000 and 26,500 tonnes, while Western buyers continue sourcing from Russia due to limited alternatives, despite sanctions and restrictions.

Export Market Access Remains a Major Hurdle

Chinese titanium exporters are eager to enter Western aerospace markets, but qualification requirements for sponge and semi-finished products like billets and bars remain a key challenge. In the U.S., a 20% tariff on titanium products imposed in early 2024 has stalled contract negotiations. Although titanium is exempt from reciprocal tariff increases, the uncertainty has added risk for long-term buyers.

In contrast, the EU and UK have suspended some titanium tariffs for aerospace, but supply chains remain locked into existing agreements with qualified Western producers. Market penetration remains difficult despite strong output growth in China.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The China titanium consumption 2025 forecast reflects steady domestic growth, led by aerospace and electronics. However, real global competitiveness hinges on overcoming certification and tariff-related export hurdles, particularly in Western aerospace markets still reliant on legacy Russian supply chains.