In the background of increasingly uncertain global markets, European production of paper and board demonstrated resilience in 2016, according to a report by U.K.-based CEPI (Confederation of European Paper Industries). This not only continues the trend of recent years but exceeds the performance of other key paper-producing regions including the U.S. and Canada.

European consumption of paper and board has exhibited a rise for the third consecutive year, growing by 0.3% in 2016, driven by stronger demand for certain categories of paper products, particularly sustainable packaging, hygiene, and specialty papers. The rise in consumption has also had a knock-on effect on imports into CEPI countries, which rose by 4.5% in 2016 (7.2% of total European paper consumption). Despite this trend and increased competition globally, the industry remains a net exporter, exporting approximately 21% of its production.

On another positive note, a 2.7% increase was witnessed in pulp production, putting a halt to recent years of decline. This was buoyed by an increase (17.8%) in the export of market pulp to non-CEPI countries, particularly Asia (20.8% increase). Utilization of paper for recycling has remained relatively stable as in previous years, exhibiting a slight increase in 2016. The collection of paper for recycling has also moved in the right direction, displaying a modest increase of 1.0%. At the same time, exports of paper for recycling have increased by 5.6%, the majority of which reached Asian markets (91.7%).

CEPI’s key statistics, audited by Deloitte, are the primary publication of reference for the most up-to-date statistics on European industry production and market developments. The statistics are a compilation of data received by CEPI members (national associations with pulp and paper companies as members) under the auspices of CEPI’s Statistics Network. Some additional sources, such as Eurostat, have been used where necessary and relevant. Extra statistical information is accessible to members on CEPI’s Members Area and to non-members by subscription. To subscribe for CEPI’s extensive statistics offer for non-members, visit the association’s web site. 

For more information, contact Eric Kilby, statistics manager, (+32) 32 2 627 49 37.

The Confederation of European Paper Industries is a pan-European association representing the forest fiber and paper industry. Through its 18 national associations, CEPI gathers 495 companies operating more than 900 pulp and paper mills across Europe, producing paper, cardboard, pulp, and other bio-based products. CEPI represents 22% of the world production, EUR 81 billion of annual turnover to the European economy, and directly employs more than 175,000 people.