Germany: price hikes remain the number one issue in the market

摘要

Price hikes remain the number one issue in all sectors of the German paper market. Price negotiations for recovered paper have dragged on in October. A clear picture of the price development for ordinary grades could only be gained by the middle of the month, when prices were quoted to have climbed by EUD7.50/t. Prices for medium and high grades also saw slight upward movements. The price trend in the graphic paper sector is not homogeneous. At press time, it was unclear how successful manufacturers were in realising price hikes. Both wholesalers and manufacturers appear to face resistance from some market participants. Very strong demand for LWC and SC paper has helped to eliminate rock-bottom prices. Manufacturers want to take even bolder steps in the new year. In the packaging paper sector, manufacturers chalked up further successes in the latest hikes of kraft-liner prices. This also forces the corrugated paper industry to realise higher prices. Woodfree envelope paper manufacturers have also succeeded in partially implementing price increases. The situation is not quite as good in the recycling paper sector whereas prices for core board are a set to rise in one go. Certain decor paper manufacturers have started implementing price hikes as announced a while ago.