Inorganic Powder Market Report‑August 2026

In August, China’s inorganic powder market showed divergent performance. Titanium dioxide trended slightly down due to off‑season demand from coatings and plastics sectors, with growing factory inventory and more flexible spot negotiation. Fillers such as precipitated barium sulfate and ground calcium carbonate kept firm prices supported by mineral raw‑material costs. Overseas inquiries remained active, while buyers kept price‑sensitive, long‑term orders dominated shipments.

Titanium Dioxide (Sulfate‑process Rutile)

Domestic ex‑factory price: CNY 14400‑14600/MT. Major brand R‑298 ranges CNY14800‑15800/MT. Supply remains sufficient with rising inventory. Domestic end‑users only place rigid‑demand orders in traditional off‑season. FOB reference: USD 2000‑2100/MT. Export volume grew year‑to‑date while July monthly volume dropped month‑on‑month. Short‑term outlook remains weak, expecting marginal improvement in September peak season.

Precipitated Barium Sulfate

98% standard grade ex‑factory: CNY3100‑3300/MT. Price edged up early August driven by tight barite ore and coal cost. End‑users from powder coating, industrial coating and rubber‑plastic sectors keep steady demand. Super‑fine modified grades: CNY3500‑4000/MT.

Ground Calcium Carbonate(GCC)

Ordinary 400‑800 mesh: CNY360‑480/MT; 1250mesh activated plastic grade: CNY650‑850/MT. Price varies by mesh size, whiteness and surface treatment. Ample capacity, periodic supply disturbance from mine‑site environmental control.

Market Outlook

Focus on downstream demand recovery in September peak season for TiO₂. Barium sulfate and calcium carbonate will stay cost‑supported with limited downside. Southeast Asia and Middle East keep being key overseas markets with high requirements for stable supply and cost‑effective products.