US Recovered Paper Prices Plummet

Published: December 04, 2008

INDEPENDENCE, OH | Longbow Research reports in its Forest & Paper Products Weekly by analyst Joshua Zaret that US recovered paper prices have plummeted as much as $50–$100/ton in November, representing the sharpest downturn ever. Old corrugated container (OCC) prices averaged $30/ton in November, reaching a 15-year low and down 80% from the March 2008 peak. Old newspaper prices have plunged $130/ton in the last two months, settling at $39/ton. The rapid two-month decline has offset the steady increases of the last three years.

Global market pulp prices continued to rapidly retrench in November, according to Zaret. Widespread market-related curtailments were insufficient to offset historically high supply and tepid demand. All major grades declined sequentially. Northern bleached softwood kraft (NBSK) prices in China crashed (-$140/ton). NBSK prices in Europe and the US fell $65/ton and $48/ton, respectively, according to the report. Hardwood price declines ranged from $40-$65/ton.For the complete report, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (610-505-0832) or visit: www.longbowresearch.com.