In Feburary 2023, pulp prices rose by 2.2% to $925 per ton (FOB, US) compared to the the previous month.

The global wood pulp market rose to $148B in 2024, picking up by 3.9% against the previous year. The market value increased at an average annual rate of +2.0% from 2012 to 2024; the trend pattern remained relatively stable, with somewhat noticeable fluctuations being observed throughout the analyzed period. Global consumption peaked in 2024 and is likely to see steady growth in years to come.

Kraft Pulp decreased 182 CNY/T or 3.10% since the beginning of 2025, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. This dataset includes a chart with historical data for Kraft Pulp.

In fiscal year 2024, the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) for pulp, paper, and paperboard was nearly 147.6. This means that the prices for this commodity increased by over 42 percent from the base year of 2012.

According to Cognitive Market Research, The Global Dissolving Pulp market size is USD 5651.2 million in 2024 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.40% from 2024 to 2031.

North America Dissolving Pulp held the major market of around 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 2260.48 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.6% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe Dissolving Pulp accounted for a share of around 30% of the global market size of USD 1695.36 million in 2024.
Asia Pacific Dissolving Pulp held the market of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 1299.78 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4% from 2024 to 2031.
South America Dissolving Pulp market of around 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 282.56 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.8% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa Dissolving Pulp held the major market of around 2% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 113.02 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.1% from 2024 to 2031.
The sales of manufacturing process are expected to increase due to its versatile application across various industries, coupled with advancements in technology and the growing demand for specialty cellulose products.
The sales of wood pulp are anticipated to rise owing to its abundant availability, cost-effectiveness, and increasing demand for sustainable raw materials in industries such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, and food additives.

Increasing Demand for Sustainable and Eco-friendly Products to Increase Sales

The increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products is a significant driver propelling sales in the dissolving pulp market. Consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious, leading to a preference for products made from renewable resources and produced through eco-friendly processes. Dissolving pulp, derived from sustainably managed forests, offers a viable alternative to conventional materials with its biodegradable and recyclable properties. This demand is further fuelled by regulatory initiatives promoting environmental sustainability and reducing carbon footprints across industries. Companies emphasizing their commitment to sustainability gain a competitive edge, attracting environmentally conscious consumers and fostering brand loyalty. As sustainability continues to be a key priority for businesses and consumers alike, the dissolving pulp market is poised for sustained growth, driven by the increasing adoption of eco-friendly practices and products worldwide.

Growth in Textile and Apparel Industries Worldwide to Increase Sales

The growth in the textile and apparel industries worldwide serves as a significant driver in boosting sales within the dissolving pulp market. As global populations increase and living standards improve, there is a parallel surge in demand for clothing and textiles, driving expansion in these industries. Dissolving pulp finds extensive application in textile manufacturing, particularly in the production of viscose rayon, which is widely used in garments, home textiles, and various other fabric applications. Additionally, advancements in textile technologies and evolving consumer preferences towards high-quality, comfortable, and sustainable textiles further fuel the demand for dissolving pulp-based fibres. Emerging markets, especially in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, are witnessing rapid urbanization and increasing disposable incomes, thereby driving the demand for textiles and subsequently boosting the sales of dissolving pulp within the global market.

Market Restraints of the Dissolving Pulp

Volatility in Raw Material Prices to Hinder the Market Growth

Volatility in raw material prices poses a significant hindrance to market growth in the dissolving pulp industry. Fluctuations in the prices of key raw materials such as wood pulp and bamboo can disrupt production schedules, increase manufacturing costs, and erode profit margins for producers. These price fluctuations are influenced by factors such as changes in supply and demand dynamics, currency fluctuations, and geopolitical tensions. Uncertainty surrounding raw material prices also complicates long-term planning and investment decisions for manufacturers. Moreover, the inability to predict and...

In August 2022, the wood pulp price per ton amounted to $865.2 (CIF, China), with an increase of 3.6% against the previous month.

In 2023, the producer price index of pulp, paper and related products stood at 120.6 index points, an increase of more than 20 index points compared to the base year 2020.

The global pulp and paper market was valued at 351.53 billion U.S. dollars in 2021, and was expected to increase in value in 2022. The market is projected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.72 percent from 2022 to 2029 to reach a value of roughly 373 billion U.S. dollars.

Growth in paper packaging demand The increasing demand for e-commerce and growing concerns about plastic packaging pollution is set to drive paper packaging consumption in the coming years. The global demand for containerboard, which is the most consumed paper type worldwide, is projected to grow 27 percent from 2021 through 2032 to reach 226 million tons. Containerboard, also known as corrugated case material, is used in the production of corrugated boards.

Pulp consumption for paper production The amount of recycled paper pulp consumed for paper production totaled 203 million tons in 2021. That same year, some 171 million tons of pulp for paper production came from virgin wood species such as eucalyptus trees. Of this total, 40 percent was market pulp made up mostly of Bleached Chemical Pulp (BCP).

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Pulp Market Size 2025-2029

The pulp market size is forecast to increase by USD 43.2 billion at a CAGR of 3.8% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is characterized by the production of wood pulp from mills, including the Muskogee Mill, and the increasing adoption of renewable energy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Forest-based raw materials, such as wood, bamboo, rice husk, and wheat straw, continue to dominate the market. 
However, the rising demand for paper packaging materials, including wrapping paper and writing paper, has led to an increase in the consumption of pulp. Despite the benefits of pulp production, the industry faces challenges, including high production costs. To stay competitive, mills must continually optimize their production lines and explore alternative raw materials and energy sources. This market analysis report delves into these trends and challenges, providing insights into the growth factors shaping the pulp industry. 

What will be the Size of the Market During the Forecast Period?

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In the food and beverage industry, pulp is used for producing various packaging materials, such as cartons, bottles, and cups. In the personal care industry, it is used for producing toilet paper, paper towels, and other hygiene products. The trend towards green packaging is expected to continue, with the demand for eco-friendly packaging materials increasing. This is particularly true in the food and beverage industry, where consumers are increasingly demanding sustainable packaging options. Similarly, in the personal care industry, there is a growing demand for biodegradable and recyclable packaging materials.

How is this market segmented and which is the largest segment?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Application

  Printing and writing paper
  Tissue paper
  Specialty paper
  Packaging paper
  Others


Grade Type

  Chemical pulp
  Mechanical and semi-chemical pulp
  Non-wood pulp


Geography

  North America

    Canada
    US


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France
    Italy


  South America



  Middle East and Africa

By Application Insights

The printing and writing paper segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market plays a significant role in the production of various paper products, including printing and writing paper. This type of paper is primarily manufactured using pulp, which is derived from wood, bamboo, rice husk, and wheat straw. The global market for printing and writing paper is experiencing growth due to the increasing demand for paper packaging materials and wrapping paper in developing countries. The production line of printing and writing paper involves the addition of chemicals such as dyes, pigments, coating agents, and various additives. In the case of security printing paper, bay salt and chlorine dioxide are used for dyeing, while halopont, ponolith, and ponolith supra are employed for organic pigment production.

Moreover, countries like China, India, and Indonesia are major consumers of printing and writing paper due to their large populations and rising literacy rates. The demand for paper products is expected to continue increasing in these countries, making the market a vital player in the renewable energy operation. The forest-based industry remains the largest contributor to the market, but the use of alternative raw materials like bamboo, rice husk, and wheat straw is gaining popularity due to their sustainability benefits and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. In conclusion, the market is a crucial component in the production of printing and writing paper, which is in high demand in developing countries.

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The printing and writing paper segment was valued at USD 61.00 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

North America is estimated to contribute 32% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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In North America, the United States and Canada are significant contributors to the expansion of the market. Despite being mature markets, the growth is anticipated to be moderate. The extensive usage of paper and paper-based items in various sectors, such as printing, writing, newsprint, and packaging, continues to fuel market growth. The presence of abundant raw material resources, including forests, p

The Indian wood pulp market expanded sharply to $5.1B in 2024, surging by 5.9% against the previous year. Over the period under review, the total consumption indicated a remarkable increase from 2012 to 2024: its value increased at an average annual rate of +5.7% over the last twelve years. The trend pattern, however, indicated some noticeable fluctuations being recorded throughout the analyzed period. Based on 2024 figures, consumption increased by +48.1% against 2020 indices.

The industrial producer price index (PPI) of pulp, paper, and paperboard manufactured in Italy peaked at 145 in October 2022, after having grown steadily since the end of 2020. Pulp and paper PPI experienced a decrease in 2023, but was on an increasing trend in 2024, reaching 115 in August 2024. As it can be expected, the PPI of paper products manufactured in Italy showed a similar trend.

The market value of the Swedish pulp and paper industry stood at 6.72 billion U.S. dollars in 2022. Forecasts indicate that this figure will increase to around 8.02 billion U.S. dollars by 2030.

Additional information on the pulp and paper market can be found here.

India Wholesale Price Index: 82p: Average: Manufactured Products: Paper and Paper Products: Paper and Pulp: Pulp data was reported at 357.500 1981-1982=100 in Mar 2000. This records an increase from the previous number of 341.200 1981-1982=100 for Feb 2000. India Wholesale Price Index: 82p: Average: Manufactured Products: Paper and Paper Products: Paper and Pulp: Pulp data is updated monthly, averaging 157.600 1981-1982=100 from Apr 1982 (Median) to Mar 2000, with 216 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 357.500 1981-1982=100 in Mar 2000 and a record low of 102.600 1981-1982=100 in Nov 1983. India Wholesale Price Index: 82p: Average: Manufactured Products: Paper and Paper Products: Paper and Pulp: Pulp data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Inflation – Table IN.IH134: Wholesale Price Index: 1981-82=100: Manufactured Products: Paper and Paper Products. Rebased from 1981-82=100 to 1993-94=100. Replacement series ID: 19641601

Canada IPPI: NAPCS: PP: Pulp & Paper data was reported at 118.800 Jan2020=100 in Jan 2025. This records an increase from the previous number of 117.200 Jan2020=100 for Dec 2024. Canada IPPI: NAPCS: PP: Pulp & Paper data is updated monthly, averaging 93.900 Jan2020=100 from Jan 2010 (Median) to Jan 2025, with 181 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 127.900 Jan2020=100 in Oct 2022 and a record low of 79.500 Jan2020=100 in Jan 2010. Canada IPPI: NAPCS: PP: Pulp & Paper data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statistics Canada. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Canada – Table CA.I010: Industrial Product Price Index: NAPCS 2017: Jan2020=100.

In 2024, the global dissolving grade wood pulp market increased by 0.5% to $11.2B, rising for the fourth year in a row after two years of decline. Overall, the total consumption indicated noticeable growth from 2012 to 2024: its value increased at an average annual rate of +3.6% over the last twelve-year period. The trend pattern, however, indicated some noticeable fluctuations being recorded throughout the analyzed period. Based on 2024 figures, consumption increased by +44.2% against 2020 indices.

The producer price index (PPI) of pulp, paper, and paperboard in France exceeded 151 in January 2023, after increasing since 2020. This was the highest figure during the period under consideration. In 2017, 2020, and 2021, the PPI dropped below 100.

The Saudi chemical wood pulp market rose sharply to $153M in 2024, increasing by 13% against the previous year. Over the period under review, the total consumption indicated a perceptible expansion from 2012 to 2024: its value increased at an average annual rate of +2.8% over the last twelve-year period. The trend pattern, however, indicated some noticeable fluctuations being recorded throughout the analyzed period. Based on 2024 figures, consumption increased by +71.4% against 2019 indices.

Bleached Eucalyptus Kraft Pulp (BEKP) Market size was valued at USD 365.2 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 434.3 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

Global Bleached Eucalyptus Kraft Pulp (BEKP) Market Drivers

The market drivers for the Bleached Eucalyptus Kraft Pulp (BEKP) Market can be influenced by various factors. These may include:

Increasing Demand for Sustainable Packaging: The global shift towards sustainability has fueled demand for eco-friendly products, including packaging materials made from bleached eucalyptus kraft pulp (BEKP). As businesses and consumers increasingly prioritize environmentally conscious choices, BEKP, known for its renewable properties, becomes a preferred option. This surge in sustainable packaging requirements across various sectors, such as food and beverage, cosmetics, and consumer goods, is driving the growth of the BEKP market. Companies are investing in innovative packaging solutions that are not only biodegradable but also possess superior strength and durability, thereby enhancing product protection. This growing emphasis on sustainable alternatives is anticipated to further propel the BEKP market.

Growth in the Textile Industry: The textile industry is witnessing significant growth, particularly in regions such as Asia-Pacific and Europe, which, in turn, is creating a robust demand for bleached eucalyptus kraft pulp. BEKP is extensively used in producing high-quality viscose rayon fibers, which are increasingly utilized in clothing and home textiles. As the global population continues to rise and fashion trends evolve, the appetite for diverse textile products increases, highlighting a growing preference for natural and more sustainable fibers. The expanding textile application of BEKP not only supports environmental initiatives but also aligns with consumer desires for comfort and quality, stimulating further market growth.

Global Bleached Eucalyptus Kraft Pulp (BEKP) Market Restraints

Several factors can act as restraints or challenges for the Bleached Eucalyptus Kraft Pulp (BEKP) Market. These may include:

Environmental Regulations: The Bleached Eucalyptus Kraft Pulp (BEKP) market faces significant challenges due to stringent environmental regulations. Governments globally are enforcing stricter standards concerning deforestation, water usage, and pollution from pulp production processes. Compliance with these regulations often requires substantial investment in sustainable practices and technologies, which can increase production costs. Companies may face fines or legal action if they fail to meet these environmental standards. These regulatory hurdles can stifle market growth, particularly for manufacturers operating in regions with stringent ecological policies, thus creating barriers to entry for new players while pushing existing ones to adapt or incur losses.

Competition from Alternative Materials: The BEKP market is encountering robust competition from alternative materials such as recycled paper, mechanical pulp, and various non-wood pulp sources. As sustainability becomes a priority for industries ranging from packaging to textiles, companies are increasingly exploring alternatives that align with eco-friendly practices. The rise of digital media has also reduced paper demand in certain sectors, making alternatives more appealing due to lower costs and reduced environmental impact. This competition may lead to price wars and market share dilution for BEKP producers, pressuring them to innovate or adopt more sustainable practices to maintain their market positions.

In 2020, China increased its chemical wood pulp imports by +10% y-o-y to 24M tons. It was driven by rising demand for paper packaging and tableware amid the pandemic and further stimulated by a sharp fall in import prices last year. Brazil, Indonesia and Canada are the major suppliers, providing 57% of the total import volume. Bleached sulphate pulp accounted for 95% of total wood pulp imports into China.

The Algerian wood pulp market expanded markedly to $104M in 2024, increasing by 11% against the previous year. This figure reflects the total revenues of producers and importers (excluding logistics costs, retail marketing costs, and retailers' margins, which will be included in the final consumer price). Over the period under review, consumption, however, saw a buoyant increase.