Cardboard Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2026 Edition
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 Q4 2025
- USA: USD 584/MT
- China: USD 263/MT
- Germany: USD 253/MT
- Brazil: USD 348/MT
- Canada: USD 438/MT
Cardboard Price Chart
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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 the cardboard prices.
Europe Cardboard Price Trend
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.
| Region | Countries Covered |
|---|---|
| Europe | Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, Turkey, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, Belgium, Austria, Ireland, Switzerland, Norway, Denmark, Romania, Finland, Czech Republic, Portugal, and Greece, among other European countries. |
North America Cardboard Price Trend
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.
| Region | Countries Covered |
|---|---|
| North America | United States and Canada |
Middle East and Africa Cardboard Price Trend
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.
| Region | Countries Covered |
|---|---|
| Middle East & Africa | Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel, Iran, South Africa, Nigeria, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Iraq, Egypt, Algeria, and Morocco, among other Middle Eastern and African countries. |
Asia Pacific Cardboard Price Trend
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.
| Region | Countries Covered |
|---|---|
| Asia Pacific | China, India, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Japan, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, Nepal, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, Hongkong, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand, among other Asian countries. |
Latin America Cardboard Price Trend
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.
| Region | Countries Covered |
|---|---|
| Latin America | Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Columbia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru, among other Latin American countries. |
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 industry 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. Growth is driven by expanding e-commerce logistics, increasing demand for sustainable packaging materials, and rising consumption of corrugated packaging across retail and industrial sectors. Additionally, regulatory emphasis on recyclable materials and environmentally responsible packaging solutions continues to support long-term industry expansion.
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 new cartridge system reduced plastic usage significantly by replacing conventional plastic bodies with fiber-based cardboard material, while maintaining durability and compatibility with standard dispensing tools used in construction and industrial sealant applications.
- December 2024: VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, in collaboration with Aalto University and industry partners, developed an origami-inspired cardboard packaging technology using a continuous reel-to-reel folding process. The system creates lightweight, durable fiber-based structures that can replace conventional protective materials such as plastic and expanded polystyrene while maintaining compatibility with existing paperboard grades. Developed under the FOLD and FOLD2 projects involving 13 organizations, the technology enables flexible, protective packaging and supports the use of recycled materials, with potential commercialization within three to five years.
Product Description
Cardboard is a generic term used to describe a range of heavy-duty paper-based materials known for their rigidity, durability, and versatility. It is typically composed of multiple layers of paper pulp, including a fluted or corrugated middle layer sandwiched between two flat linerboards, forming what is commonly known as corrugated cardboard. This structure provides strength and cushioning, making it ideal for packaging, shipping, and storage applications.
Cardboard is widely used in the production of boxes, cartons, and packaging inserts for various industries, including retail, electronics, food and beverages, and e-commerce. It is valued not only for its lightweight yet sturdy nature but also for its recyclability and low environmental impact compared to plastic alternatives. Cardboard can be made from virgin pulp or recycled paper fibers and is often customizable through printing, coating, or lamination to meet branding and functional requirements.
Report Coverage
| Key Attributes | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Cardboard |
| Report Features | Exploration of Historical Trends and Market Outlook, Industry Demand, Industry Supply, Gap Analysis, Challenges, Cardboard Price Analysis, and Segment-Wise Assessment. |
| Currency/Units | US$ (Data can also be provided in local currency) or Metric Tons |
| Region/Countries Covered | The current coverage includes analysis at the global and regional levels only. Based on your requirements, we can also customize the report and provide specific information for the following countries: Asia Pacific: China, India, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Japan, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, Nepal, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, Hongkong, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand Europe: Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, Turkey, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, Belgium, Austria, Ireland, Switzerland, Norway, Denmark, Romania, Finland, Czech Republic, Portugal and Greece North America: United States and Canada Latin America: Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Columbia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru Middle East & Africa: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel, Iran, South Africa, Nigeria, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Iraq, Egypt, Algeria, and Morocco* *The list of countries presented is not exhaustive. Information on additional countries can be provided if required by the client. |
| Information Covered for Key Suppliers |
|
| Customization Scope | The report can be customized as per the requirements of the customer |
| Report Price and Purchase Option |
Plan A: Monthly Updates - Annual Subscription
Plan B: Quarterly Updates - Annual Subscription
Plan C: Biannually Updates - Annual Subscription
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| Post-Sale Analyst Support | 360-degree analyst support after report delivery |
| Delivery Format | PDF and Excel through email (We can also provide the editable version of the report in PPT/Word format on special request) |
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.
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