In 2023, the worldwide production of graphic papers stood at ** million metric tons. This represented a slight decrease in comparison to the previous year, and the lowest figure since the 1980s. What drives the decline in graphic papers production? Graphic papers constitute a broad category that includes printing and writing papers, such as newsprint, coated and uncoated papers, and specialty papers. These types of papers are mainly used for books, magazines, newspapers, catalogs, and advertising materials. The demand for graphic papers has been negatively affected by the shift to digital media, such as e-books, online news, and social media platforms. As consumers increasingly access information and entertainment online, the need for printed materials decreases. Despite the downturn in graphic paper demand, production of packaging papers and paperboard has continued to rise. Environmental footprint of paper production The global pulp and paper industry continues to face various sustainability challenges, such as deforestation, habitat loss, pollution, waste, and growing greenhouse gas emissions. To tackle these challenges, the industry has adopted various measures such as following governmental regulations and guidelines and applying greener production techniques that reduce the environmental footprint of the production process, such as using less water, chemicals, and energy, or using renewable or recycled materials; and by joining voluntary programs that certify the sustainability of the forest management practices, the pulp and paper production, or the final products. Alongside these measures, one of the most effective ways for the industry to mitigate the environmental impact of paper production is by increasing the utilization of recycled paper. The global production of recovered paper has significantly risen throughout the years.

The United States produced 6.5 million metric tons of graphic papers in 2023, which was the lowest production volume since 1961. Graphic papers production in the North American country experienced a considerable growth until the turn of the century, reaching a peak of 30.9 million metric tons in 1997. However, production has been in decline since then, with digitalization playing a key role in falling demand.

In 2023, approximately 84 million metric tons of graphic paper were produced worldwide. Meanwhile, packaging paper and board production amounted to 259 million metric tons. Overall, the quantity of paper and paperboard produced worldwide in 2023 weighed more than 400 million metric tons. Demand for graphics papers is declining In today’s digitalized world, there is less need for graphic papers as many formats switch to paperless options. Between 2010 and 2023, the quantity of graphic papers produced worldwide fell by over 40 percent. In contrast, packaging paper and board production increased by roughly 27 percent during the same period. The growth in packaging paper demand has been partially driven by e-commerce. Corrugated material is now the most produced paper grade worldwide, accounting for 45 percent of paper production in 2023. Where is paper produced? The largest producers of paper and paperboard are China and the United States, which produced 134 million and 607 million metric tons worth in 2023, respectively. Paper production in China has risen rapidly in recent decades, while production in the United States has been declining.

Explore the booming graphic paper market projected to reach $63 billion by 2033! This detailed analysis covers market size, CAGR, key players (International Paper, Georgia-Pacific, etc.), regional trends (North America, Europe, Asia), and future growth potential. Discover insights into the driving forces and challenges shaping this dynamic industry.

The global graphic paper making machines market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality printing and packaging materials across diverse sectors. The market's expansion is fueled by several key factors, including the burgeoning print media industry, particularly in developing economies, and the rising adoption of advanced printing technologies. Furthermore, the increasing preference for customized packaging solutions and the growth of e-commerce are contributing to the demand for specialized paper types, thereby boosting the need for sophisticated graphic paper making machines. While the market faces challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices and stringent environmental regulations, the overall outlook remains positive, with significant growth projected over the next decade. The market is segmented by application (commercial and industrial) and machine type (fully automatic and semi-automatic), offering various options based on production scale and automation needs. Leading players are continuously investing in R&D to improve machine efficiency, reduce operational costs, and enhance product quality. This competitive landscape drives innovation, providing customers with access to cutting-edge technology and improved productivity. The Asia-Pacific region, particularly China and India, is expected to witness substantial growth due to rapid industrialization and increasing domestic demand. Technological advancements, such as the integration of automation and digitalization in paper manufacturing processes, are significantly impacting the market dynamics. The development of energy-efficient and environmentally friendly machines is gaining traction, aligning with the global focus on sustainability. Fully automatic machines are expected to dominate the market segment due to their high productivity and reduced labor costs. The market's growth is further supported by government initiatives promoting industrial development and infrastructure investments in key regions. However, high initial investment costs associated with purchasing advanced machinery might restrain smaller companies' entry into the market. The competitive landscape includes a mix of established international players and regional manufacturers, each with unique strengths and market positions. This diversified landscape ensures market dynamism and ongoing innovation.

Graphic Paper Making Machines Market Outlook

The global graphic paper making machines market size was valued at approximately $3.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around $5.6 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period. This growth is largely driven by the increasing demand for printed materials such as newspapers, magazines, and books, particularly in emerging economies where literacy rates are rising and economic conditions are improving.

One of the primary growth factors for the graphic paper making machines market is the ongoing expansion of the publishing industry. Despite the increasing digitization of media, the demand for printed books and magazines remains strong in both developed and developing regions. This sustained demand is fueling investments in advanced graphic paper making machines that can produce high-quality paper at efficient rates. Additionally, the revival of newspaper circulation in certain regions is also contributing to market growth, as newspapers continue to be a critical source of information, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.

Technological advancements in graphic paper making machines are another significant growth driver. Innovations such as automation, energy-efficient designs, and enhanced productivity features are making these machines more attractive to end-users. The integration of IoT and AI for predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring is further adding value to these machines, enabling paper mills and printing companies to optimize their operations and reduce downtime. This technological evolution is expected to continue to propel the market forward over the forecast period.

The rising environmental concerns and stringent regulations regarding paper production are also shaping the market dynamics. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on developing eco-friendly machines that minimize waste and energy consumption. The shift towards sustainable production methods is not just a regulatory necessity but also a market-driven requirement, as consumers and businesses alike are becoming more eco-conscious. This trend is likely to spur further innovations and investments in the graphic paper making machines market in the coming years.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific region is expected to dominate the graphic paper making machines market due to the rapid industrialization and urbanization in countries like China and India. The region's growing population and burgeoning middle class are driving the demand for printed materials, thereby boosting the need for efficient paper making machinery. North America and Europe are also significant markets, driven by technological advancements and a well-established publishing industry. Conversely, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa are emerging markets with substantial growth potential due to improving economic conditions and increasing investments in the publishing sector.

The role of Stock Preparation Systems in the paper making process cannot be overstated. These systems are crucial for ensuring the quality and consistency of the pulp, which directly affects the final paper product. Stock Preparation Systems are designed to handle various raw materials and process them into a uniform pulp suitable for paper production. This involves several stages, including pulping, screening, cleaning, and refining, each of which plays a vital role in removing impurities and enhancing fiber properties. As the demand for high-quality paper increases, the efficiency and effectiveness of Stock Preparation Systems become even more critical, driving innovations in this area to meet the evolving needs of the paper industry.

Product Type Analysis

Forming Section

The forming section is a critical component of graphic paper making machines as it is responsible for the initial formation of the paper web from the pulp slurry. This segment is witnessing significant advancements aimed at improving the quality and efficiency of paper formation. High-tech forming fabrics and advanced drainage systems are being integrated into modern forming sections to optimize sheet formation and enhance the mechanical properties of the paper. The adoption of automated control systems in the forming section is also on the rise, providing precise control over the paper formation process, thereby reducing defects and improving overall productivity.

Moreover, environme

Learn about the projected growth of the graphic paper market in Europe over the next decade, driven by increasing demand. By 2035, the market volume is expected to reach 28 million tons, with a value of $35.1 billion.

Learn about the projected growth of the graphic papers market in North America over the next decade, driven by rising demand. By 2035, the market volume is expected to reach 13 million tons and the market value to hit $15.8 billion.

The paper, cardboard and paperboard manufacturing industry has experienced an ambivalent development over the past five years. While demand for packaging materials has increased over time due to growing online trade, demand in other areas has declined. Especially in the area of graphic papers, which are used in newspaper and magazine printing, manufacturers have recently lost numerous customers due to the declining circulation figures of newspaper and magazine publishers. Sales have fallen by an average of 3.1% per year since 2019.In 2024, the industry's turnover is expected to be 17.3 billion euros, which corresponds to a decline of 3.9% compared to 2023. The production of paper is extremely energy-intensive, which is why companies in the industry were hit hard by the increases in electricity and gas prices triggered by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The passing on of these cost increases had a very negative impact on paper production in 2022 and 2023, especially as many customers in the industry had previously built up high inventories. For the current year, IBISWorld expects the sales situation in the industry to gradually stabilise. On the one hand, the demand situation is likely to improve minimally overall compared to the previous year, while on the other hand, the players in the graphic paper sector are likely to take further capacity from the market in 2024. By 2029, turnover in the sector is expected to increase by an average of 2.8% per year to 19.8 billion euros. Mail order and online retail in particular are likely to provide positive impetus in the coming years. At the same time, the number of companies in the sector is likely to decrease. Smaller and technically outdated production facilities are likely to be closed by their operators and production is likely to be concentrated in larger and more modern facilities.

Global graphic paper market size was valued at $35.49 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $48.95 billion by 2034, a CAGR of 4.10% from 2025 to 2034.

In 2023, the turnover of the graphic paper market in Italy amounted to over *********** euros. The value of exports of paper for graphic use was more than double the value of imports, resulting in a trade balance of *** million euros that year.

European Sold Production of Graphic Paper and Paperboard with Mechanical Fibres Not Exceeding 10% and Weighing at Least 150 g/m² by Country, 2023 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

The Europe Paper Market Report is Segmented by Product Type (Graphic Papers, Case Materials, Sanitary and Household, Wrappings, Carton Board, and Specialty Papers), Raw-Material Source (Virgin Fiber, Recycled Fiber, and Agro-Residue Fiber), Basis-Weight (Below 90 Gsm, and More), End-Use Industry (Packaging and Industrial, and More), and Geography (Germany, and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Volume (Tonnes).

Forecast: Sold Production of Graphic Paper and Paperboard with Mechanical Fibres Not Exceeding 10% and Weighing at Least 150 g/m² in Germany 2023 - 2027 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

Explore insights from Market Research Intellect's Graphic Paper Making Machines Market Report, valued at USD 3.1 billion in 2024, expected to reach USD 4.5 billion by 2033 with a CAGR of 4.8% during 2026-2033.Uncover opportunities across demand patterns, technological innovations, and market leaders.

The Vietnamese graphic papers market reduced to $1.2B in 2024, which is down by -3.1% against the previous year. Overall, consumption, however, continues to indicate a mild curtailment. Graphic papers consumption peaked at $1.6B in 2013; however, from 2014 to 2024, consumption failed to regain momentum.

The Paper and Paperboard Product Manufacturing industry has long been a cornerstone of Europe’s manufacturing landscape, driven by historically strong demand for printed materials, packaging and stationery. However, recent trends show a significant shift towards digital document management. European consumers and businesses are well on their way to shifting to electronic alternatives for documentation, communication and billing, favouring efficiency and environmental considerations over traditional paper-based practices. The surge in secure digital file storage and the legal recognition of electronic documents, notably in France, are cutting the reliance on physical paper products. Revenue is forecast to drop at a compound annual rate of 2.7% over the five years through 20025 to €91.3 billion, including a projected slump of 0.7% in 2025. Industry revenue surged in 2022 as soaring wood pulp prices, spurred by global supply chain disruptions, allowed manufacturers to pass cost increases onto customers. However, this boost quickly faded. By late 2023, global pulp prices had cooled, while persistent economic headwinds, including the Red Sea crisis and a European cost-of-living crunch, reversed the revenue momentum. Major manufacturers, like UPM-Kymmene, have issued profit warnings, pointing to softening demand and volatile pulp prices, signalling an industry under structural and cyclical strain. Revenue is slated to swell at a compound annual rate of 3.7% over the five years through 2030 to €109.2 billion. The digitalisation wave, propelled by rapid 5G adoption, electronic invoicing initiatives and advances in digital public services, will continue to pressure paper products. Energy and raw material costs also pose ongoing challenges, particularly for manufacturers in import-dependent markets like the UK and Italy. Manufacturers operating in countries with abundant domestic pulp supply, like Finland and Sweden, will fare better, benefitting from more stable input costs and greater supply chain control. To offset these headwinds, manufacturers will need to intensify investment in operational efficiencies, recycling technologies and sustainable product innovation. With regulators and consumers favouring recycled and eco-certified products, environmentally responsible manufacturers are poised to capitalise on new growth opportunities, especially as the circular economy takes precedence across Europe.

The Middle East and Africa Pulp and Paper Market Report is Segmented by Grade (Mechanical Pulp, Recycled Pulp, and More), Application ( Newsprint, Tissue, and More), End-User Industry (Hygiene Products, Publishing and Education, and More), Product Type (Graphic Papers, Packaging Papers, and More), Process Technology (Hygiene Products, Publishing and Education, and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

The Market is Segmented by Product Type (Cardiology Monitoring Recording Chart Papers, Fetal Monitoring Recording Chart Papers, OBGYN Recording Chart Paper, and Other Product Types), End User, and Geography.

Good data quality Since 1992 experts at KCL (Now VTT) has in cooperance with pulp and paper industry collected and updated data on pulp and paper and related value chain processes. Mill energy fuel mixes and production volumes per country have been collected by CEPI . This data has been implemented to the EcoData data to give a weighted average per country specific fuel mix. The technology of Nordic, Central and South Europe has been used and relevant transport distances applied. Cut off by mass 1%.

Technical Purpose: Graphic paper for printing

Geographical Representation: EU-25