Titanium Imports from Russia Persist as Airbus Diversifies to US Supply

Titanium

China Surge and EU Dependence

Titanium imports from Russia continue in 2025 despite geopolitical pressure. China’s intake from Russia hit unprecedented levels. Imports reached 4,627t in January–June, more than triple 2024’s first half. Bars, rods, and shapes led the flow, followed by plate and sheet. However, less than a third stayed in China, according to estimates. Therefore, re-exports or indirect flows likely expanded. Europe’s OEMs still buy from VSMPO-Avisma while building alternatives. Meanwhile, the EU has not sanctioned VSMPO directly, preserving legal pathways.

Titanium imports from Russia also serve China’s aerospace and maritime supply chains. China still needs select external components for the C919 program. Medical implants and maritime uses also draw on Russian feedstock. Therefore, China’s vast domestic capability still has gaps. End-destinations remain hard to track through customs data. Tirus subsidiaries add complexity across the UK, Germany, the US, and China. As a result, compliance checks burden banks and Western buyers.

Airbus Diversifies and Closes the Loop

Titanium imports from Russia continue in Europe, but Airbus is hedging. France’s intake from Russia hit a record in 2024. First-half 2025 volumes rose 37% year on year. However, Airbus signed a five-year, $1bn ATI deal in May. The pact more than doubles ATI’s supply of plate, sheet, and billet. French imports from the US also reached a first-half record. Two-thirds were flat-rolled products, signaling procurement rebalancing.

Scrap loop initiatives strengthen strategic titanium independence. Airbus collected 460t of scrap in France by January 2025. EcoTitanium melts ingots with up to 75% scrap content. Ingots then feed Aubert & Duval for forged parts. Therefore, Airbus programs gain secure, lower-risk supply. Meanwhile, Premium AEROTEC scrap will enter a closed loop in Germany. This effort reduces prime sponge exposure and transport risks.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Airbus’s pivot to US flat-rolled supply marks a structural shift. Yet Europe still lacks large forgings and rolling capacity. Expect long lead times, higher capex, and tighter scrap control to shape titanium pricing.