In the midst of the energy crisis, the paper industry is worried but resisting. Remember that early September was marked by price increases for graphic grades, carton board and tissue. Recovered paper was affected by a serious drop in packaging demand, which then led to a price drop. October and November saw certain trends intensify. In particular, the decline in the price of recovered paper which has spread to all grades. The bullish pulp cycle also appears to be coming to an end as prices that have reached historically high levels. Prices have begun to ease on long fibres, with demand for short fibres remaining stronger and reduced supply. Despite the desire for increases on the part of some producers, the prices of corrugated paper, which were renewed in Europe in September, were stable except for the kraftliner whose price fell in France and Germany. While the carton board segment saw further increases in some grades in October, a decline in recycled grades began in November due to lower gas prices. The market for graphic grades remained without showing a real direction which the case for the tissue sector as well. Overall, the market has adapted well/ best to this energy shock, but the situation is not the same according to the players, whose needs and energy contracts differ. For several months now, all affected stakeholders have had to pass on these very variable additional costs. With the recent decline in energy prices, some are starting to back off and are adjusting their prices accordingly. One expectation remains, however, which is strong consumption in November.
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Published on 24/11/2022