Italy: Paper and board producers and buyers still discussing prices after the summer

摘要

In late September, there was a great deal of lively debate about prices in Italy. Many sectors saw prices soften over the summer and prices are feeling the pinch again towards the start of the final quarter of the year. The suprising jump in prices for ordinary recovered paper grades in September is not making life any easier for a number of market players in the recycled paper and board segments. In September, softwood kraft pulp suppliers have also made theirfirst price hike announcements on the European market. Converters are a little busier again in a few sectors of the market, something that is rubbing off on a few paper manufacturers. However, uncertainty about where the market is headed in the autumn and winter is still evident and shaping business activity. Both sides are constantly keeping an eye on the trend in new Covid-19 infection rates in Italy and the rest of Europe.There is a great deal of concern that another increase might ruin the weak recovery in certain sectors.