The Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft pulp market witnessed a weak-to-stable pricing trend during Q1’26 as oversupply conditions and soft downstream paper consumption outweighed rising logistics and production costs. In China, NBSK pulp prices declined from ~5.55 RMB/kg (Spot) in January to ~5.27 RMB/kg (Spot) in March, while Q1’26 average prices slipped by ~0.50% from Q4’25 and recorded a ~3.86% fall between January and March. The decline was mainly driven by subdued demand from packaging paper, tissue, and fine paper manufacturers alongside cautious post-holiday procurement and sufficient imported inventories. European NBSK prices remained comparatively stable, moving from ~1.14 EUR/kg (DAP) in January to ~1.15 EUR/kg (DAP) in March, although quarterly average prices were still lower by ~0.21% from Q4’25 and down ~0.68% during the quarter due to inconsistent downstream paper demand. Meanwhile, in North America, prices eased from ~735 USD/MT (EXW) in January to ~730 USD/MT (EXW) in March, while Q1’26 average prices declined by ~0.48% quarter-on-quarter amid weak containerboard demand and balanced domestic supply. The Iran conflict and disruption in the Strait of Hormuz significantly impacted global pulp trade flows and supply chains during the quarter.
Analyst Insight
According to Procurement Resource, the NBSK pulp market is expected to remain weak-to-stable as soft downstream paper demand and ample inventories continue to pressure prices, although elevated freight, insurance, and raw material costs may restrict further sharp declines.
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| Product | Category | Region | Price | Last Updated Month |
| NBSK Pulp | Chemicals | China | 891 USD/MT | January 2025 |
| NBSK Pulp | Chemicals | China | 759 USD/MT | December 2025 |
| NBSK Pulp | Chemicals | Europe | 1352 USD/MT | January 2025 |
| NBSK Pulp | Chemicals | Europe | 1325 USD/MT | December 2025 |
| NBSK Pulp | Chemicals | United State | 732 USD/MT | January 2025 |
| NBSK Pulp | Chemicals | United State | 800 USD/MT | December 2025 |
Stay updated with the latest NBSK Pulp prices, historical data, and tailored regional analysis
Throughout 2025, the Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft (NBSK) Pulp market experienced divergent regional price movements driven by varying downstream demand patterns. In China, the market witnessed sustained downward pressure as tissue and hygiene product manufacturers maintained cautious procurement strategies amid softening consumer demand. Import volumes decreased as buyers opted for need-based purchasing, reflecting weak confidence. The prices were about 891 USD/MT (Spot) in January and around 759 USD/MT in December.
European markets demonstrated initial strength supported by steady demand from the printing and writing paper sector. However, prices gradually retreated as economic uncertainty dampened consumption patterns. Packaging material producers adjusted their procurement volumes downward, responding to slower growth in retail sectors. The prices were about 1352 USD/MT (DAP) in January and around 1325 USD/MT in December.
In contrast, the United States market exhibited consistent upward momentum throughout the year. Domestic tissue manufacturers ramped up production to meet resilient consumer demand for hygiene products, while specialty paper producers maintained steady offtake. Supply-side constraints, including maintenance shutdowns at major mills, contributed to tighter market conditions. The packaging industry's sustained activity further supported demand, particularly in food-grade applications. The prices were about 732 USD/MT (EXW) in January and around 800 USD/MT in December.
Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft (NBSK) Pulp comprises long slender fibres that offer great bonding and tensile properties. It is used to make a wide range of paper products, such as printing and writing paper. The pulp is derived from lumber wood.
(C6H10O5)n
Used for producing various paper products like printing and writing paper, speciality grades, and many tissue products.
Cellulose (pulp), Bleached Kraft Pulp (Cellulose)
West Fraser, UPM Pulp, Canfor Pulp, Paper Excellence Canada, METSA FIBRE, Domtar Corporation, Resolute Forest Products, Sodra, Mercer
CurrencyUS$ (Data can also be provided in local currency)
Supplier Database AvailabilityYes
Customization ScopeThe report can be customized as per the requirements of the customer
Post-Sale Analyst Support360-degree analyst support after report delivery
Note: Our supplier search experts can assist your procurement teams in compiling and validating a list of suppliers indicating they have products, services, and capabilities that meet your company's needs.
Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft (NBSK) Pulp is produced from lumber wood through a multi-step process. The wood is initially bark removed in a barking drum and then ground before being segregated in a storage silo. The chips are subsequently cooked in a digestor using sodium sulfide and sodium hydroxide to break down lignin and release the fibers. The resulting pulp is separated from black liquor, bleached based on the intended use, and finally, the production of NBSK pulp is completed.
Udeesha Tomar
AVP - Strategy and Solutions
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This report provides the cost structure of paperboard by pulping, bleaching, and coating processes.
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