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Most uncoated free sheet producers announced $40/ton increases for late February or early March, Mark Wilde, senior analyst with Deutsche Bank, reports. "This was no real surprise as our conversations with merchants, importers and other players in the trade pointed to a healthier tone in the business. Major players are now extending the price hike to include offset rolls," Wilde adds. Domtar and NewPage announced $40/ton price hike on their offset grades, effective on February 22. Others, including IP, Glatfelter, Finch, Flambeau, and Grays Harbor have already announced similar price hikes on offset grades. G-P, Boise, Suzano, and Soporcel have limited their efforts to cut-size grades. Offshore, price moves are being announced in Europe and Latin America. The rally in pulp prices is pressuring margins at nonintegrated mills. Preliminary January shipment figures show modest signs of improvement, +1.6% y/y (up for the second consecutive month).Inventories remain lean, Wilde notes.
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