Virgin Paper Price Trend

Virgin Paper Price Trend, Index and Forecast

Track the latest insights on virgin paper 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.

Virgin Paper Prices Outlook Q2 2025

• USA: US$ 1196/MT
• France: US$ 1136/MT
• Spain: US$ 1086/MT
• Thailand: US$ 917/MT
• Brazil: US$ 928/MT

Virgin Paper Price Chart

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During the second quarter of 2025, the virgin paper prices in the USA reached 1196 USD/MT in June. As per the virgin paper price chart, the closures of pulp and paper mills had a noticeable impact on virgin paper prices, primarily through shifts in the fiber supply chain. As mills closed, the reduced demand for pulpwood from the woods left landowners with fewer outlets for their timber, disrupting timber management plans in affected areas. This created a ripple effect in the market, where the supply of raw materials needed for virgin paper production was constrained, ultimately leading to upward pressure on prices.

During the second quarter of 2025, the virgin paper prices in France reached 1136 USD/MT in June. The demand for virgin fiber remained strong, particularly in the packaging, board, and tissue sectors. This sustained demand, coupled with limited availability of sustainable fiber due to competition from other industries, contributed to upward pressure on virgin paper prices.

During the second quarter of 2025, virgin paper prices in Spain reached 1086 USD/MT in June. The Spanish paper packaging market, a significant segment of the country's paper industry, faced challenges during this period. The industry grappled with the effects of mill closures and raw material shortages. These factors contributed to increased production costs, which were reflected in the prices of paper packaging products.

During the second quarter of 2025, the virgin paper prices in Thailand reached 917 USD/MT in June. Local mills benefited from a consistent fiber supply and steady operational efficiency, which helped balance production expenses. However, rising energy and transportation costs exerted slight upward pressure on prices. Additionally, growing interest in eco-friendly and biodegradable paperboard alternatives, in line with domestic sustainability initiatives, enhanced competitiveness in regional export markets.

During the second quarter of 2025, the virgin paper prices in Brazil reached 928 USD/MT in June. One of the key drivers of fluctuating prices was the rising cost of raw materials, particularly wood fiber. This rise in fiber costs was partly due to heightened demand, increased transportation distances, and higher labor expenses. The surge in wood fiber prices exceeded global averages, putting pressure on pulp and paper manufacturers to adjust their cost structures.

Virgin Paper Prices Outlook Q1 2025

• USA: US$ 1170/MT
• France: US$ 1100/MT
• Spain: US$ 1055/MT
• Thailand: US$ 905/MT
• Brazil: US$ 920/MT

During the first quarter of 2025, the virgin paper prices in the USA reached 1170 USD/MT in March. As per the virgin paper price chart, prices in the USA were influenced by a combination of factors, including rising raw material costs (pulp), trade disruptions, and overall market demand.

During the first quarter of 2025, virgin paper prices in France reached 1100 USD/MT in March. Shortages of fiber and rising transportation costs put upward pressure on the overall cost of production, leading to fluctuating prices for virgin paper. Besides, the demand for packaging, particularly from the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and online retail sectors, also served as a key driver of price changes. 

During the first quarter of 2025, the virgin paper prices in Spain reached 1055 USD/MT in March. Changes in the cost of wood pulp, the primary raw material for virgin paper, directly impacted the final price of the product. Besides, increases in other production costs, such as labor or transportation, also contributed to price changes. 

During the first quarter of 2025, the virgin paper prices in Thailand reached 905 USD/MT in March. The continued expansion of e-commerce drove demand for packaging materials also influencing pricing patterns. Besides, Thailand's economy saw growth driven by government stimulus measures, which indirectly impacted paper demand. 

During the first quarter of 2025, the virgin paper prices in Brazil reached 920 USD/MT in March. Higher raw material and energy costs, particularly for fiber and electricity, put upward pressure on prices. Additionally, strong demand from the packaging sector in Brazil, coupled with signs of recovery in domestic consumption, influenced pricing.

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 virgin paper prices.

Global Virgin Paper Price Trend

The report offers a holistic view of the global virgin paper pricing trends in the form of virgin paper price charts, reflecting the worldwide interplay of supply-demand balances, international trade policies, and overarching economic factors that shape the market on a macro level. This comprehensive analysis not only highlights current price levels but also provides insights into historical price of virgin paper, enabling stakeholders to understand past fluctuations and their underlying causes. The report also delves into price forecast models, projecting future price movements based on a variety of indicators such as expected changes in supply chain dynamics, anticipated policy shifts, and emerging market trends. By examining these factors, the report equips industry participants with the necessary tools to make informed strategic decisions, manage risks, and capitalize on market opportunities. Furthermore, it includes a detailed virgin paper demand analysis, breaking down regional variations and identifying key drivers specific to each geographic market, thus offering a nuanced understanding of the global pricing landscape.

Europe Virgin Paper Price Trend

Q2 2025:

In the second quarter of 2025, virgin paper prices in Europe experienced upward pressure due to a combination of mill closures, rising raw material costs, and shifting market dynamics. Several European paper mills ceased operations in mid-2025. These closures reduced the supply of virgin paper, particularly in the graphic paper sector, where demand was already declining. The shutdowns led to concerns about supply shortages, prompting buyers to secure available stocks, thereby driving prices higher. Concurrently, the cost of virgin fiber inputs, such as Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft (NBSK) pulp, increased. However, these declines were tempered by strong demand from the e-commerce sector, which maintained upward pressure on prices.

Q1 2025:

As per the virgin paper price index, in Q1 2025, prices in Europe were influenced by a mix of factors, including rising input costs, particularly for pulp, and fluctuations in raw material and energy prices. While some segments, like kraft paper, saw a mild price increase due to strong e-commerce demand, other areas experienced price volatility. 

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

North America Virgin Paper Price Trend

Q2 2025:

As per the virgin paper price index, in the second quarter of 2025, several factors significantly influenced virgin paper prices in North America, reflecting a complex interplay between supply chain disruptions, fiber availability, and changes in mill capacity. Besides, the pulp and paper industry faced growing demand for fiber as paper consumption continued to fluctuate. As mills closed or scaled back operations, the competition for available fiber resources intensified, further driving up prices for virgin paper products. Another significant influence was the shift in mill capacity towards recycled fiber processing. Many US pulp and paper mills converted from using wood-based fibers to processing 100% recycled materials. These conversions were part of a broader industry trend to capitalize on the lower cost of recycled feedstocks, thus impacting virgin paper prices.

Q1 2025:

The scarcity of raw materials, particularly fiber, and increased global prices for pulp pushed up production costs for virgin paper producers. Besides, new tariffs on imported goods, including paper products, created uncertainty and were cited as a reason for price hikes. Moreover, strong e-commerce activity and consistent demand for packaging materials, like kraft paper, supported higher prices in some segments. 

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

Middle East and Africa Virgin Paper Price Trend

Q2 2025:

The report explores the virgin paper trends and virgin paper 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 virgin paper prices for countries can also be provided.

Asia Pacific Virgin Paper Price Trend

Q2 2025:

The Asia-Pacific region faced significant challenges related to raw material availability and logistics. Fluctuations in wood pulp and recovered paper supply, combined with environmental restrictions in key producing countries, impacted mill operations and increased production costs. These disruptions contributed to price volatility in virgin paper products, including kraft and fine paper grades. Trade tensions, particularly between the United States and China, introduced uncertainties into the pulp market. Chinese paper manufacturers, facing unpredictable pricing due to potential US tariffs, became hesitant to commit to long-term purchases. This cautious approach led to reduced demand for imported pulp, exerting downward pressure on virgin paper prices in the region.

Q1 2025:

In the first quarter of 2025, virgin paper prices in the Asia Pacific region experienced fluctuations due to a combination of factors, including increased raw material costs, supply chain disruptions, and shifting trade dynamics. Specifically, transportation pressures and trade tensions contributed to rising raw material costs, impacting production and sales strategies for paper mills. 

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

Latin America Virgin Paper Price Trend

Q2 2025:

As per the virgin paper price index, virgin paper prices in Latin America experienced upward pressure due to a combination of factors affecting both supply and demand. A significant driver of price increases was the rising costs of raw materials and energy. Besides, trade dynamics also played a role in influencing virgin paper prices. In Mexico, for instance, the introduction of new trade tariffs affected the cost and availability of paper and paper-related products.

Q1 2025:

As per the virgin paper price index, increased demand and supply chain disruptions pushed up pulp and energy prices, which are key components in paper production. Besides, tariffs and trade volatility, particularly related to the Mexican economy, affected the cost and availability of paper and paper-related products in the region. 

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

Virgin Paper Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC's latest publication, “Virgin Paper Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition,” presents a detailed examination of the virgin paper market, providing insights into both global and regional trends that are shaping prices. This report delves into the spot price of virgin paper at major ports and analyzes the composition of prices, including FOB and CIF terms. It also presents detailed virgin paper price trend analysis by region, covering North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East and Africa. The factors affecting virgin paper 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.

Virgin Paper Industry Analysis

The global virgin paper market size reached 203.5 Million Tons in 2024. By 2033, IMARC Group expects the market to reach 282.2 Million Tons, at a projected CAGR of 3.50% during 2025.

• The rising emphasis on hygiene and food safety has significantly increased the demand for virgin paper in food packaging applications. Unlike recycled paper, virgin paper is made directly from fresh wood pulp, offering superior purity, strength, and barrier properties critical for direct food contact. Its low contamination risk makes it ideal for packaging perishable goods, bakery products, fast food, and ready-to-eat meals. With the food service industry expanding globally and consumers increasingly opting for takeout and delivery options, the need for sustainable yet hygienic packaging materials has surged. In addition, regulatory frameworks in many countries are restricting plastic use in food contact applications, further propelling the shift toward paper-based alternatives. Virgin paper also allows for easier customization in terms of printability and design, making it more appealing for brand packaging. As the food packaging sector continues to grow, virgin paper remains an essential material in delivering both safety and sustainability.
• The rapid growth of e-commerce and digital retailing has significantly boosted the demand for high-quality packaging materials, including virgin paper. According to the report published by IMARC Group, the global e-commerce market size reached USD 26.8 Trillion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to exhibit a CAGR of 25.83% during 2025-2033. As online shopping becomes increasingly prevalent, businesses seek durable and visually appealing packaging to protect goods during transit and enhance customer experience upon delivery. Virgin paper, due to its strength, smoother finish, and consistent quality, is often preferred over recycled alternatives, especially for premium or fragile products. It is widely used in making sturdy paper bags, wrapping sheets, and corrugated boxes with high-quality liners. Moreover, many retailers are shifting toward sustainable yet aesthetically pleasing packaging solutions to align with eco-conscious consumer preferences. While recycled materials are used extensively, virgin paper is often necessary for structural integrity and print clarity in outer layers.
• Government-imposed bans and restrictions on single-use plastics have become a major driver for the virgin paper market. Across many countries, regulatory efforts aimed at reducing plastic pollution have led to a surge in demand for eco-friendly alternatives in packaging, carry bags, cutlery, and more. Virgin paper, being biodegradable, recyclable, and made from renewable sources, has emerged as a viable substitute for plastic in various end-use sectors. Its ability to meet both performance and environmental criteria makes it a preferred material, especially where hygiene and food contact compliance are required. With stricter environmental standards and growing public pressure to adopt sustainable practices, businesses are compelled to shift toward paper-based solutions. Virgin paper is often favored over recycled variants in these applications due to its higher purity, durability, and compliance with food safety standards. As plastic bans widen globally, the market for virgin paper is expected to witness consistent and long-term growth.

Virgin Paper News

The report covers the latest developments, updates, and trends impacting the global virgin paper industry, providing stakeholders with timely and relevant information. This segment covers a wide array of news items, including the inauguration of new production facilities, advancements in virgin paper production technologies, strategic market expansions by key industry players, and significant mergers and acquisitions that impact the virgin paper price trend.

Latest developments in the Virgin Paper industry:

• June 2025: With an investment of over $1 billion, Green Bay Packaging, a prominent producer of cutting-edge packaging solutions, is growing its current manufacturing site in Morrilton, Arkansas. The mill's infrastructure will be greatly improved by the multi-year project.
• April 2024: Walkers introduced a paper-based outer bag for all Snack A Jacks multipacks in the UK. This move eliminates the traditional plastic outer wrapper, reducing virgin plastic use by about 65 tons per year.

Product Description

Virgin paper is a type of paper made entirely from fresh, unused wood pulp that has not been previously processed or recycled. Derived directly from trees through mechanical or chemical pulping, it contains no post-consumer or pre-consumer recycled fibers. This results in a product that is typically stronger, whiter, and more durable than recycled paper, making it ideal for applications requiring high-quality printability, hygiene, and structural integrity.

Commonly used in food packaging, medical supplies, premium printing, and tissue products, virgin paper is valued for its cleanliness and consistency. Its production allows manufacturers greater control over fiber composition, brightness, and strength, which is especially important for packaging that comes in direct contact with food or sensitive goods.

However, concerns about deforestation and environmental impact have prompted the industry to shift toward sustainable forestry practices. Many virgin paper producers now source pulp from certified, responsibly managed forests and invest in renewable energy and water-efficient processes.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report presents a detailed analysis of virgin paper pricing, covering global and regional trends, spot prices at key ports, and a breakdown of FOB and CIF prices.
• The study examines factors affecting virgin paper 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 virgin paper price charts ensure our clients remain at the forefront of the industry.