Global demand for fluff pulp is growing steadily, but disruptive shifts on the supply side could upset the balance of costs, prices, and profitability worldwide. Upcoming capacity expansion projects, along with the recent sale of Weyerhaeuser's fluff pulp assets to International Paper, suggest a shifting competitive landscape. These and other trends are explored in detail by the Outlook for the World Fluff Pulp Market, a new report from RISI, Boston, Mass., USA. 

 

"Emerging markets are driving demand growth for fluff pulp, which is used in diapers and other hygiene products. The industry is responding with capacity expansion worldwide, but there's a real risk of supply outpacing demand. In this study, we explore the impact this could have on prices and profitability throughout the global fluff pulp market," said Ben Sirois, RISI Economist and lead author of the Outlook.

 

The study explores drivers of disruption among fluff pulp suppliers, including: 

• Potential for further mergers and acquisitions, in the wake of the recent Weyerhaeuser/International Paper deal 
• Possible over-capacity, as new plants come online faster than the market is growing 
• Development of fluff pulp made from hardwood, to potentially challenge the dominance of U.S. southern softwood in fluff pulp production. 

The study also includes supply, demand, cost, and pricing history, and forecasts for the entire world fluff pulp sector. Access to the report is available online.

  

Companies with historical fluff pulp data included in the study: 

Arauco, Domtar, Fujian Tengrongda, Georgia-Pacific, International Paper, Klabin, Rayonier, Resolute Forest Products, SCA, Stora, Suzano, UPM, WestRock, Weyerhaeuser 

Celulosa Cambara, CHH Pulp & Paper, CMPC, Kimberly-Clark, Korsnas, Lwarcel, M-real, Paper Excellence, Skogall, Tembec