Summary: • Wood pulp prices are in a recovery/upswing phase in 2026 after a trough in mid‑2025, with moderate upside risk rather than a return to the extreme peaks of 2021–22. • Structural demand growth is driven by packaging and tissue/hygiene; printing/writing remains structurally weak. • Supply is constrained by delayed/cancelled projects, mill closures, and tighter environmental/deforestation rules, especially impacting hardwood pulp; this supports firmer prices into 2026–27. • For procurement in June 2026, the balance of information suggests: lock in at least part of volume via contracts,
Summary: • Wood pulp prices are in a recovery/upswing phase in 2026 after a trough in mid‑2025, with moderate upside risk rather than a return to the extreme peaks of 2021–22. • Structural demand growth is driven by packaging and tissue/hygiene; printing/writing remains structurally weak. • Supply is constrained by delayed/cancelled projects, mill closures, and tighter environmental/deforestation rules, especially impacting hardwood pulp; this supports firmer prices into 2026–27.
• For procurement in June 2026, the balance of information suggests: lock in at least part of volume via contracts, avoid over‑reliance on spot, diversify geographically, and prioritize certified/sustainable suppliers. Price level & trajectory into mid‑2026: • Global pulp prices fell sharply through H1 2025 and reached a trough around June 2025, driven by over‑capacity, weak paper demand and high inventories; Chinese BSK around ~US$695/t and BEK around ~US$495/t at the low point.
• From late 2025 onwards, prices started to recover, especially hardwood, as overseas capacity growth slowed, some mills shut or curtailed, and costs (energy, logistics) rose. • Industry commentary for 2026 describes “stabilization with renewed volatility”: prices are no longer collapsing, but swings are expected due to geopolitics, tariffs, and regulatory shifts (e.g., EU Deforestation Regulation timing).
• Paper exporters report that after a “relatively weak period, pulp prices have started to recover in 2026,” and warn th
Procurement teams should maintain flexible sourcing strategies for Wood Pulp given the evolving market dynamics. Monitor supply-side developments, inventory trends, and demand signals from end-use sectors. Consider layered hedging against price volatility and diversify supplier exposure to manage risk.