The gap between the prices for hardwood and softwood pulp continues to widen in October. While the upward trend for softwood grades seems unbroken, experts hope that the downward trend for hardwood grades has come to a halt.

 

The upward price trend for softwood grades in Europe continues. In mid-October, the market was still characterised by satisfactory demand worldwide and limited supplies. Maintenance-related downtime in northern Europe continued in the fourth quarter and thus supported the trend.

 

Converters' inventories are also considerably lower than in 2012. Against this backdrop, suppliers believe they will have a good chance of implementing their announced price hikes.

 

As for hardwood grades, industry experts now expect prices in Europe to have bottomed out this month, although the downward pressure seems not to have vanished completely.