The economic impact of titanium dioxide in Europe

Economic value

From its extraction and production, all the way to its application across various industries and in commercial and home use, TiO₂ provides a huge number of economic benefits for the people of Europe.

The European Union provides 20 percent of global TiO₂ production – an estimated market value of €3 billion.

Where TiO₂ is produced

TiO₂ is manufactured in 18 plants in the European Economic Area (EEA).

Industries

Paints and coatings, commercial printing inks, plastics and paper make up 94 percent of the total demand for TiO₂ in the EU.

Value of the paints and coatings industry

As a white pigment, TiO₂ is one of the most important raw materials for paints and coatings.

TiO2 is found in wall paints, façade coatings, and wood and trim coatings, including emulsion paint, lacquer, wood stain and roof coatings.

Value of plastics industry

In the plastics industry, the main uses for TiO₂ are in packaging, building, construction, transport, marine, clothing and sporting goods.

Value of paper industry

In the plastics industry, the main uses for TiO₂ are in packaging, building, construction, transport, marine, clothing and sporting goods.

The overall value of these sectors, including downstream markets, is €650 billion.

Value of cosmetics industry

Over 20 000 cosmetic products have been launched in the last five years containing TiO₂. Intolerance or allergy to titanium dioxide is very rare, and it is often used for the protection it provides from harmful UV rays.

TiO₂is approved as safe for use by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, when used in a concentration of up to 25 percent, and not in spray applications.