Cardboard Price Trend

Cardboard Price Trend, Index and Forecast

Track the latest insights on cardboard price trend and forecast with detailed analysis of regional fluctuations and market dynamics across North America, Latin America, Central Europe, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Middle East, North Africa, West Africa, Central and Southern Africa, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, East Asia, and Oceania.

Cardboard Prices Outlook Q3 2026

• USA: USD 577/MT
• China: USD 321/MT
• Germany: USD 268/MT
• Brazil: USD 379/MT
• Canada: USD 476/MT

Cardboard Price Chart

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During the third quarter of 2026, the cardboard prices in the USA reached 577 USD/MT in September. Prices moved upward as firm operating rates at domestic paper mills and corrugated converting plants kept output closely matched to committed volumes through the quarter. Steady procurement from online retail fulfillment, food and beverage packers and industrial shippers kept offtake active across the main consuming regions.

During the third quarter of 2026, the cardboard prices in China reached 321 USD/MT in September. Prices advanced as domestic mills kept operating rates firm while directing part of their output toward export commitments, which trimmed the volumes offered into the local market. Steady demand from consumer goods packers, electronics shippers and food processors supported consistent offtake across the main producing provinces.

During the third quarter of 2026, the cardboard prices in Germany reached 268 USD/MT in September. Prices moved upward as buyers absorbed firmer replacement costs on incoming board and on domestic mill offers during the quarter. Steady demand from packaging converters, automotive parts suppliers and retail distribution chains kept procurement active across the main consuming markets. Firmer costs for recovered paper and virgin fiber shaped local offer levels through the period.

During the third quarter of 2026, the cardboard prices in Brazil reached 379 USD/MT in September. Prices rose as steady demand from agricultural shippers, food processors and consumer goods packers absorbed available volumes through the quarter. Firm operating rates at domestic mills kept output closely matched to committed volumes rather than building surplus stock.

During the third quarter of 2026, the cardboard prices in Canada reached 476 USD/MT in September. Prices climbed as cross border availability tightened and replacement costs rose across the North American supply chain. Steady demand from packaging converters, food processors and industrial shippers kept procurement active through the period. Strong buying interest from downstream users in the wider region absorbed available volumes and reduced the material offered for spot business.

Cardboard Prices Outlook Q2 2026

• USA: USD 554/MT
• China: USD 310/MT
• Germany: USD 256/MT
• Brazil: USD 364/MT
• Canada: USD 455/MT

During the second quarter of 2026, the cardboard prices in the USA reached 554 USD/MT in June. Prices in the country showed a mild upward movement supported by steady demand from packaging and e commerce sectors. Consumption from food delivery and retail packaging segments remained stable, helping maintain procurement activity. Supply conditions were balanced as production rates aligned closely with domestic demand.

During the second quarter of 2026, the cardboard prices in China reached 310 USD/MT in June. Prices in the country moved upward with improving demand from manufacturing and export oriented packaging sectors. Increased activity in industrial goods shipment supported higher consumption of packaging materials. Supply availability remained relatively stable, though production adjustments by mills influenced short term price movements.

During the second quarter of 2026, the cardboard prices in Germany reached 256 USD/MT in June. Prices in the country showed limited movement with a slightly firm undertone driven by stable packaging demand from industrial and retail sectors. Consumption from export oriented manufacturing supported consistent order volumes. Supply conditions remained adequate, though energy and operational costs influenced production economics. Recycled fiber availability remained sufficient but subject to periodic logistical constraints.

During the second quarter of 2026, the cardboard prices in Brazil reached 364 USD/MT in June. Prices in the country increased moderately supported by steady growth in retail consumption and food packaging demand. Industrial packaging requirements from agricultural exports also contributed to stable consumption levels. Supply conditions were influenced by regional production efficiency and transportation constraints across distribution networks.

During the second quarter of 2026, the cardboard prices in Canada reached 455 USD/MT in June. Prices in the country moved slightly upward supported by consistent demand from packaging, logistics, and retail sectors. E commerce growth continued to support consumption of corrugated packaging materials. Supply conditions remained stable, though transportation costs and seasonal collection variations influenced procurement dynamics.

Cardboard Prices Outlook Q4 2025

• USA: USD 584/MT
• China: USD 263/MT
• Germany: USD 253/MT
• Brazil: USD 348/MT
• Canada: USD 438/MT

During the fourth quarter of 2025, the cardboard prices in the USA reached 584 USD/MT in December. Prices rose, supported by steady demand from e-commerce packaging and consumer goods distribution sectors. Additionally, procurement from corrugated box manufacturers and retail supply chains remained active. Producers maintained stable production schedules while distributors increased contract-based sourcing to support packaging requirements.

During the fourth quarter of 2025, the cardboard prices in China reached 263 USD/MT in December. Prices increased, driven by firm demand from export packaging and domestic e-commerce logistics networks. Moreover, stable procurement from electronics and consumer product manufacturers supported steady trading activity. Paperboard mills aligned production output with consistent downstream packaging demand.

During the fourth quarter of 2025, the cardboard prices in Germany reached 253 USD/MT in December. Prices moved upward, influenced by steady demand from industrial packaging and logistics service providers. Furthermore, consistent procurement from manufacturing exporters supported organized supply conditions. Distributors maintained regular inventory replenishment to meet packaging material requirements.

During the fourth quarter of 2025, the cardboard prices in Brazil reached 348 USD/MT in December. Prices climbed, supported by stable consumption from food packaging and consumer goods distribution sectors. Additionally, structured procurement from agricultural exporters reinforced steady demand for corrugated packaging materials. Buyers maintained consistent purchasing aligned with supply chain logistics activity.

During the fourth quarter of 2025, the cardboard prices in Canada reached 438 USD/MT in December. Prices edged higher, driven by steady demand from packaging manufacturers and logistics service providers. In addition to this, procurement from retail distribution networks remained consistent. Producers operated with balanced supply planning while distributors maintained structured inventory coverage.

Cardboard Prices Outlook Q3 2025

• USA: USD 572/MT
• China: USD 241/MT
• Germany: USD 248/MT
• Brazil: USD 336/MT
• Canada: USD 429/MT

During the third quarter of 2025, the cardboard prices in the USA reached 572 USD/MT in September. Prices rose, supported by strong demand from e-commerce packaging and consumer goods logistics sectors. Additionally, procurement from corrugated box manufacturers and food distribution companies remained active. Producers maintained steady mill operations to meet packaging supply requirements.

During the third quarter of 2025, the cardboard prices in China reached 241 USD/MT in September. Prices declined, influenced by moderated export packaging demand and stable domestic production levels. Moreover, sufficient paperboard inventories reduced urgency in spot procurement. Packaging manufacturers maintained cautious purchasing strategies aligned with downstream shipping volumes.

During the third quarter of 2025, the cardboard prices in Germany reached 248 USD/MT in September. Prices increased, driven by steady demand from industrial exporters and logistics packaging suppliers. Furthermore, structured procurement from manufacturing sectors supported organized supply conditions. Distributors maintained balanced stock levels to serve packaging markets.

During the third quarter of 2025, the cardboard prices in Brazil reached 336 USD/MT in September. Prices climbed, supported by consistent demand from agricultural exporters and consumer goods distribution networks. Additionally, stable procurement from food packaging manufacturers reinforced active trading conditions. Packaging suppliers maintained regular production schedules.

During the third quarter of 2025, the cardboard prices in Canada reached 429 USD/MT in September. Prices edged higher, influenced by stable demand from retail packaging and logistics operations. In addition to this, procurement from corrugated packaging manufacturers remained steady. Buyers aligned purchases with ongoing distribution and warehousing activity.

Cardboard Prices Outlook Q2 2025

• USA: USD 555.57/MT
• China: USD 245.48/MT
• Germany: USD 233.50/MT
• Brazil: USD 322.2/MT
• Canada: USD 420.12/MT

During the second quarter of 2025, the cardboard prices in the USA reached 555.57 USD/MT in June. As per the cardboard price chart, prices in the USA were influenced by a combination of factors, including increased demand from the e-commerce sector, rising raw material costs, and impacts from tariffs on imported materials. 

During the second quarter of 2025, cardboard prices in China reached 245.48 USD/MT in June. Increased domestic recycling efforts and infrastructure investments in China played a role in stabilizing or even lowering cardboard prices. Additionally, seasonal factors and government policies, such as subsidies, influenced consumption patterns. 

During the second quarter of 2025, the cardboard prices in Germany reached 233.50 USD/MT in June. The cost of wood pulp, a key raw material for cardboard production, fluctuated, leading to varying manufacturing costs for cardboard producers. Besides, rising energy costs were a factor influencing prices, with some manufacturers announcing temporary surcharges or price increases. 

During the second quarter of 2025, the cardboard prices in Brazil reached 322.2 USD/MT in June. Prices for cardboard in Brazil were influenced by rising energy costs and increasing demand, leading to higher prices for paper products, including cardboard. 

During the second quarter of 2025, the cardboard prices in Canada reached 420.12 USD/MT in June. The IPPI for pulp and paper products, which includes cardboard, increased from April to May 2025. Besides, geopolitical events also impacted the cost and availability of cardboard, leading to a volatile environment.

Regional Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the market across different regions, each with unique pricing dynamics influenced by localized market conditions, supply chain intricacies, and geopolitical factors. This includes price trends, price forecast and supply and demand trends for each region, along with spot prices by major ports. The report also provides coverage of FOB and CIF prices, as well as the key factors influencing cardboard prices.

Europe Cardboard Price Trend

Q3 2026:

The cardboard price index in Europe moved upward through the quarter, supported by firmer replacement costs on incoming board and steady demand from packaging converters. Germany recorded higher values as buyers absorbed offers from established supply sources with limited room for negotiation. Converters serving food, beverage and consumer goods customers kept procurement steady through the period, covering routine packaging programs rather than holding back. Recycled and virgin fiber costs stayed firm and were carried into producer quotations. Availability of prompt material outside established contracts remained limited relative to the pace of enquiries, so sellers showed little urgency to discount. Freight, port handling and inland transport charges continued to shape delivered values across the region. Distributors maintained cautious inventory positions and bought mainly to cover committed orders rather than to rebuild stocks.

Q2 2026:

The cardboard price index in Europe showed a firm movement, supported by consistent demand from packaging intensive industries. Food and beverage sectors maintained steady consumption levels, while industrial packaging demand provided additional support. Supply conditions remained balanced across major producing countries, though energy and logistics costs influenced production economics. Recycled fiber flows were adequate but occasionally uneven due to collection variability. Export demand from neighboring regions supported production utilization. Market sentiment remained steady with limited volatility, as both supply and demand factors stayed largely aligned across the region.

Q4 2025:

As per the cardboard price index, Europe recorded an upward pricing trend. Demand from industrial exporters, consumer goods manufacturers, and logistics packaging suppliers remained steady across major manufacturing corridors. Moreover, organized recycling collection and paperboard feedstock supply supported consistent mill operations. Additionally, structured distribution networks ensured reliable availability for packaging converters and distribution companies.

Q3 2025:

Europe recorded an upward pricing trend. Demand from manufacturing exporters and industrial packaging suppliers remained stable across logistics corridors. Moreover, structured procurement from consumer goods manufacturers supported steady packaging consumption. Distributors maintained organized inventory coverage while paperboard mills continued stable production operations.

Q2 2025:

As per the cardboard price index, cardboard prices in Europe were changing due to a combination of factors, including increased demand, rising raw material costs, and geopolitical influences. Specifically, the booming e-commerce sector and the need for sustainable packaging solutions drove up demand for cardboard, while the cost of pulp, a key feedstock, also rose. Additionally, geopolitical instability and related supply chain disruptions contributed to the price fluctuations. 

This analysis can be extended to include detailed cardboard price information for a comprehensive list of countries.

North America Cardboard Price Trend

Q3 2026:

The cardboard price index in North America moved upward during the quarter, shaped by firm operating rates at regional mills and steady downstream demand. The USA recorded higher values as buyers absorbed offers with little room for negotiation. Canada followed the same direction, with cross border buyers facing firmer replacement costs as strong regional demand absorbed available material. Converters serving e commerce fulfillment, food packing and industrial shipping kept procurement active through the period. Firmer costs for recovered paper and virgin fiber were carried into producer quotations. Availability of prompt material outside established contracts remained limited relative to the pace of enquiries. Freight and handling charges on bulk consignments moved between mills, terminals and inland warehouses added to delivered values.

Q2 2026:

The cardboard price index in North America reflected a gradual upward movement, driven by stable packaging demand from retail and e commerce channels. Industrial activity supported consistent consumption of corrugated materials. Supply remained sufficient, though transportation costs and collection efficiency of recycled fiber influenced cost structures. Export opportunities to nearby markets contributed to sustained mill operations. Demand from food packaging and logistics sectors remained steady, supporting firm pricing conditions.

Q4 2025:

As per the cardboard price index, North America witnessed firm price growth. Procurement from e-commerce logistics providers, retail distribution networks, and food packaging manufacturers remained strong across key consumption centers. Furthermore, integrated pulp and paper manufacturing infrastructure supported stable production output. Buyers maintained contract-based sourcing aligned with steady packaging demand.

Q3 2025:

North America witnessed firm price growth. Procurement from e-commerce logistics providers and retail distribution centers remained active across major markets. Furthermore, integrated recycling systems and paperboard manufacturing capacity supported reliable supply. Packaging converters maintained steady production aligned with ongoing distribution activity.

Q2 2025:

The continued expansion of online retail significantly increased the demand for cardboard packaging. Besides, growing environmental awareness and regulations promoting recyclable materials like cardboard also contributed to higher demand. Moreover, rising costs for raw materials, such as wood pulp and recovered paper, put upward pressure on cardboard prices.

Specific cardboard prices and historical data within the United States and Canada can also be provided.

Middle East and Africa Cardboard Price Trend

Q3 2026:

The study includes cardboard price trends across the Middle East and Africa, taking into consideration variables that have a direct impact on market prices, such as regional industrial expansion, natural resource availability, and geopolitical conflicts.

Q2 2026:

According to the cardboard pricing chart, supply chain disruptions, seasonal changes in demand, and geopolitical pressures were the primary reasons of price volatility throughout the Middle East and Africa.

Q4 2025:

As per cardboard price chart, the prices in the Middle East and Africa fluctuated due to a complex interplay of factors, primarily driven by supply chain disruptions, seasonal demand shifts, and geopolitical influences.

Q3 2025:

The report explores the cardboard pricing trends and cardboard price chart in the Middle East and Africa, considering factors like regional industrial growth, the availability of natural resources, and geopolitical tensions that uniquely influence market prices.

In addition to region-wise data, information on cardboard prices for countries can also be provided.

Asia Pacific Cardboard Price Trend

Q3 2026:

The cardboard price index in Asia Pacific moved upward through the quarter, supported by firm producer offers and steady demand from packaging converters. China recorded higher values as domestic mills kept operating rates firm while directing part of their output toward export commitments, which trimmed local availability. Steady demand from consumer goods packers, electronics shippers and food processors kept procurement active in the main consuming provinces. Firmer costs for recovered paper feedstock were carried into producer quotations through the period. Availability of prompt material remained limited relative to the pace of enquiries across the region, which supported firmer spot values. Freight and container availability at key ports shaped delivered costs and the timing of cargo arrivals. Traders held conservative stock positions, which further tightened the supply available to buyers seeking immediate delivery.

Q2 2026:

The cardboard prices in Asia Pacific showed an upward trend, supported by improving manufacturing output and export oriented packaging demand. Industrial recovery in key economies contributed to higher consumption of corrugated materials. Supply conditions remained adequate, though fluctuations in recovered fiber availability influenced production costs. Export demand supported mill utilization rates across major producing countries. Domestic consumption from retail and logistics sectors remained steady. Overall, the region experienced firm pricing supported by balanced demand recovery and controlled supply side adjustments across major markets.

Q4 2025:

In the Asia Pacific region, prices rose, supported by strong demand from export packaging, electronics manufacturing shipments, and domestic e-commerce logistics networks. Packaging converters maintained steady procurement cycles while paperboard mills aligned production with stable order flows. Additionally, efficient logistics networks supported consistent material movement across industrial hubs.

Q3 2025:

Prices declined, influenced by moderated export packaging demand and comfortable domestic supply conditions. Paperboard mills operated with stable production output while packaging manufacturers maintained cautious procurement strategies. Additionally, efficient transport infrastructure supported steady material movement across industrial hubs.

Q2 2025:

The Asia Pacific region, particularly countries like China and India saw a surge in demand for cardboard packaging, driven by the expansion of e-commerce and the growing food and beverage industry. This increased demand puts pressure on prices. Moreover, the growing emphasis on sustainable packaging solutions in the Asia Pacific region, with a shift away from plastic, towards paper-based alternatives like cardboard, also influenced demand. This trend is further fueled by government regulations promoting eco-friendly packaging and rising consumer awareness. 

This cardboard price analysis can be expanded to include a comprehensive list of countries within the region.

Latin America Cardboard Price Trend

Q3 2026:

The cardboard price index in Latin America moved upward during the quarter, supported by firm mill operating rates and steady demand from agricultural shippers and consumer goods packers. Brazil recorded higher values as buyers absorbed offers with limited room for negotiation. Domestic mills kept output closely matched to committed volumes rather than building surplus stock. Steady demand from food processors, fruit exporters and retail distribution chains kept procurement active through the period. Firmer costs for recovered paper and virgin fiber were carried into producer quotations. Availability of prompt material outside established contracts remained limited relative to the pace of enquiries. Freight and inland transport charges on consignments moved between mills, converters and distribution centers added to delivered values.

Q2 2026:

The cardboard prices in Latin America showed moderate upward movement, supported by stable demand from retail and agricultural export packaging sectors. Consumption patterns remained consistent across food distribution and consumer goods industries. Supply conditions were influenced by regional production capacity and logistics constraints. Import reliance for certain grades added sensitivity to international price movements. Recovered fiber availability varied across local markets, affecting production costs. Overall, market sentiment remained positive with steady demand supporting gradual price increases across the region.

Q4 2025:

Cardboard prices strengthened. Consumption from agricultural exporters, food packaging manufacturers, and retail distribution sectors remained consistent across major markets. Furthermore, coordinated supply planning and organized distribution networks ensured reliable packaging material availability. Buyers maintained steady inventory coverage aligned with export logistics requirements.

Q3 2025:

In Latin America, prices moved higher. Demand from agricultural exporters and food packaging suppliers remained strong across key distribution channels. Furthermore, structured procurement from consumer goods companies supported organized packaging supply chains. Buyers maintained steady inventory levels aligned with export logistics activity.

Q2 2025:

As per the cardboard price index, trade tariffs, particularly concerning Mexico, added a layer of uncertainty to the market and impacted prices. Besides, the growing demand for food exports in the region also contributed to the need for containerboard, further impacting prices. 

This comprehensive review can be extended to include specific countries within the region.

Cardboard Pricing Report, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC's latest publication, “Cardboard Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2026 Edition,” presents a detailed examination of the cardboard market, providing insights into both global and regional trends that are shaping prices. This report delves into the spot price of cardboard at major ports and analyzes the composition of prices, including FOB and CIF terms. It also presents detailed cardboard prices trend analysis by region, covering North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East and Africa. The factors affecting cardboard pricing, such as the dynamics of supply and demand, geopolitical influences, and sector specific developments, are thoroughly explored. This comprehensive report helps stakeholders stay informed with the latest market news, regulatory updates, and technological progress, facilitating informed strategic decision-making and forecasting.

Cardboard Industry Analysis

The global cardboard market size reached USD 451.3 Billion in 2025. By 2034, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 691.2 Billion, at a projected CAGR of 4.71% during 2026-2034. Market growth is being driven by expanding online retail and parcel shipping volumes, rising demand for corrugated shipping containers and protective packaging, and steady consumption of printed cartons and display units across food, beverage and consumer goods industries.

Latest News and Developments:

• September 2025: Henkel introduced a next generation cartridge made primarily from cardboard, designed to improve sustainability and user experience in adhesive packaging applications. The system replaces conventional plastic bodies with fiber based construction, reducing plastic usage significantly while supporting cleaner handling for industrial customers.
   
• December 2024: VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, with Aalto University and industry partners, developed an origami inspired cardboard packaging technology based on a continuous reel to reel folding process. The system creates lightweight and durable fiber structures suited to protective packaging, showing how folding patterns can replace heavier material while keeping strength.

Product Description

Cardboard is the trade name for heavy paperboard products made from cellulose pulp, of which corrugated fiberboard is the most widely traded form. It is a manufactured fiber product rather than a single chemical compound, so it has no molecular formula. Its main constituents are cellulose, hemicelluloses and lignin from wood, with small amounts of sizing agents and starch adhesives. It is typically rigid and lightweight, and its structure gives good compressive strength and cushioning against impact. It folds, creases and prints readily, so converters can assemble it into boxes and trays. It is not soluble in water, although it absorbs moisture and loses strength when wet. It is readily recyclable through established recovered fiber streams. Industrially it serves the packaging, shipping, retail, food and beverage, furniture and automotive sectors. In end use it acts as the structural material for shipping containers and cartons and as protective cushioning. It is obtained by kraft pulping of wood chips into cellulose pulp, which is then formed, pressed and dried into board.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report presents a detailed analysis of cardboard pricing, covering global and regional trends, spot prices at key ports, and a breakdown of FOB and CIF prices.
• The study examines factors affecting cardboard price trend, including input costs, supply-demand shifts, and geopolitical impacts, offering insights for informed decision-making.
• The competitive landscape review equips stakeholders with crucial insights into the latest market news, regulatory changes, and technological advancements, ensuring a well-rounded, strategic overview for forecasting and planning.
• IMARC offers various subscription options, including monthly, quarterly, and biannual updates, allowing clients to stay informed with the latest market trends, ongoing developments, and comprehensive market insights. The cardboard price charts ensure our clients remain at the forefront of the industry.