Japanese suppliers of titanium, a metal critical for manufacturing aircraft, have emerged as potential beneficiaries from moves in the aerospace industry to cut ties with Russia.
The war in Ukraine will likely prompt Boeing Co. and Airbus SE to review their long-term procurement and look for alternative sources to Russian titanium, according to Thanh Ha Pham, an analyst at Jefferies Japan Ltd. Osaka Titanium Technologies Co. and Toho Titanium Co. — which are among the very few suppliers outside of Russia — are set to help make up the shortfall, he said.
"Japan is regarded as an old friend and a good partner with the U.S. as a procurement source,” Thanh Ha said. "Both Boeing and Airbus will likely deepen ties with the two Japanese suppliers.”