Ti sponge prices skyrocket
2005-04-21 09:41:47 【Print】
BEIJING (Asian Metal) 21 Apr 05 - Titanium sponge prices in the Chinese spot market keep skyrocketing, about RMB30/kg higher than two weeks ago, traders reported to Asian Metal today.
According to a trader in Shaanxi Province, spot Ti sponge prices have rocketed to RMB190-200/kg, compared to RMB150-160/kg two weeks ago. “Under the situation, we have to increase our price on an unfulfilled order from last year,” said the source .
The source revealed that one of last year’s export order of Ti sponge has not yet been fulfilled, due to material shortage, so the trader continues to carry out the order this year. The price, however, has been elevated from USD6.8/kg to around USD13/kg on account of the booming market . “It is a reasonable increase, and both parties can accept that,” said the source .
A major Ti producer in Shaanxi Province today confirmed the price increase. “Titanium sponge prices have increased 30-40% compared to about a month ago, with a few offers in the spot market higher than RMB200/kg,” said an executive.
The source reveals that Ti sponge prices have reached RMB170,000-180,000/t for bulk purchases. As a result, Ti product prices have also increased by about 20-30% with Ti sponge price increases .
However, one Ti sponge consumer in North China heard of heavy price decreases in Ti sponge in the American market. Other domestic traders have not yet confirmed that.