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Fluff Pulp Price Trend and Forecast

âźł Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026
  • Commodity Pricing

fluff pulp Price Trends by Country

usUnited States
itItaly
deGermany
cnChina
inIndia

Global fluff pulp Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Fluff Pulp Price Trend Q3 2025

In Q3 2025, the global Untreated Softwood Fluff Pulp market remained largely stable, supported by balanced supply and steady demand from hygiene, tissue, and specialty paper manufacturers. In North America, export prices held firm as producers maintained consistent production and inventory levels, while regional buyers continued regular offtake. Europe recorded modest price gains or stability, reflecting healthy demand and occasional logistics constraints, with downstream consumption remaining steady.

Across Asia, pricing trends were mixed East Asia maintained neutral levels amid sufficient inventories and balanced supply-demand conditions, while South Asia saw notable upward movement driven by robust seasonal demand and competitive sourcing amid limited vessel availability. Overall, the market demonstrated steady trading activity through the quarter, with prices largely supported by equilibrium between supply and measured procurement across major regions.

United States

Fluff Pulp price in the USA, Grade: Untreated Softwood (Brightness ≥ 86%).

In Q3 2025, the Fluff Pulp (Untreated Softwood) export price in the USA has remained nearly stable amid balanced global demand from absorbent hygiene and specialty paper manufacturers. FOB Houston prices have inched up by 0.1%, trading between USD 940–970 per metric ton. Suppliers have reported steady production rates and ample inventory levels, while buyers have maintained regular offtake across North American and Latin American markets. Logistics conditions have been favourable, supporting consistent shipment schedules.

Overall sentiment has been neutral, with neither significant upward nor downward price pressure during the quarter. The Fluff Pulp price trend in the USA has shown minimal fluctuation amid balanced supply and demand. In September 2025, Fluff Pulp prices in the USA have remained within USD 940–970 per metric ton, reflecting overall stability.

Italy

Fluff Pulp price in Italy imported from the USA, Grade: Untreated Softwood (Brightness ≥ 86%).

In Q3 2025, the Fluff Pulp (Untreated Softwood) import price in Italy has risen modestly amid firm demand from tissue and specialty paper producers. CIF Genoa prices have increased by 0.4%, ranging between USD 980–1100 per metric ton. European buyers have faced steady supply flows from the USA but have competed for vessel space amid seasonal logistics constraints.

Downstream consumption has held steady, driven by hygiene product manufacturers, while inventory levels have remained moderate. The slight price uptick has reflected healthy demand and tight freight capacity during the quarter. The Fluff Pulp price trend in Italy has indicated a steady upward tone supported by firm demand. In September 2025, Fluff Pulp prices in Italy have stood within USD 980–1100 per metric ton, maintaining stable performance.

Germany

Fluff Pulp price in Germany imported from the USA, Grade: Untreated Softwood (Brightness ≥ 86%).

In Q3 2025, the Fluff Pulp (Untreated Softwood) import price in Germany has remained stable due to balanced supply and demand. CIF Hamburg prices have stayed flat quarter-on-quarter at USD 990–1100 per metric ton. Import volumes from the USA have been consistent, with downstream hygiene and specialty paper industries maintaining regular procurement.

Freight and logistics conditions have eased slightly compared to the previous quarter, but overall buying sentiment has stayed cautious amid ample onshore inventories. The net result has been minimal price movement and a steady trading environment. The Fluff Pulp price trend in Germany has remained stable amid balanced fundamentals. In September 2025, Fluff Pulp prices in Germany have hovered around USD 990–1100 per metric ton, reflecting ongoing steadiness.

China

Fluff Pulp price in China imported from the USA, Grade: Untreated Softwood (Brightness ≥ 86%).

In Q3 2025, the Fluff Pulp (Untreated Softwood) import price in China has held steady as demand from hygiene product and tissue manufacturers has matched stable supply. CIF Shanghai prices have remained unchanged at USD 990–1100 per metric ton. American shipments have filled available port slots smoothly, and downstream buyers have maintained steady consumption. Inventory levels at mills and converters have been sufficient to meet ongoing production needs, while freight costs have stabilized after mid-quarter.

Overall, market conditions have been balanced, with pricing remaining effectively neutral. The Fluff Pulp price trend in China has exhibited steady behaviour amid consistent demand. In September 2025, Fluff Pulp prices in China have continued within USD 990–1100 per metric ton, showing balanced trading conditions.

India

Fluff Pulp price in India imported from the USA, Grade: Untreated Softwood (Brightness ≥ 86%).

In Q3 2025, the Fluff Pulp (Untreated Softwood) import price in India has recorded a strong increase amid robust demand from hygiene and absorbent product manufacturers. CIF Nhava Sheva prices have climbed 3.2% to USD 1000–1100 per metric ton. Buyers have competed for limited vessel slots and spot volumes as downstream consumption has accelerated, driven by seasonal hygiene product production.

Inventory drawdowns have prompted replenishment purchases despite elevated freight costs. The firming price has reflected tight supply dynamics and heightened offtake across key end-use segments. The Fluff Pulp price trend in India has shown a firm upward tone supported by strong demand. In September 2025, Fluff Pulp prices in India have stayed between USD 1000–1100 per metric ton, maintaining an upward trajectory.

Fluff Pulp Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to the PriceWatch, Fluff Pulp prices in the USA were assessed at USD 969 per metric ton FOB Houston by the end of Q2 2025, registering a 4.87 percent increase. Early in the quarter, prices rose due to tightened domestic supply and steady demand from hygiene and absorbent product manufacturers but began to stabilize and slightly decline toward the quarter’s close as inventories improved.

In European and Asian importing regions, particularly in Germany and China, cautious buying behaviour emerged due to high inventory carryovers, reduced diaper and feminine hygiene product demand, and efforts to manage production costs amid currency fluctuations. 

According to the PriceWatch, Fluff Pulp prices in India were assessed at USD 1163 per metric ton Ex Mumbai by the end of Q2 2025, reflecting an overall increase of 4.8%, although prices showed signs of stability and slight decline towards the quarter’s close. Early in the quarter, prices rose due to firm import demand from hygiene product manufacturers amid steady diaper and sanitary napkin production and higher shipping charges.

However, by June, softened procurement activity and sufficient port inventories led to reduced spot buying. Additionally, favourable shipping schedules from the USA and stable supply availability helped ease cost pressures in the Indian market. 

In Q1 2025, Fluff Pulp prices in the USA fell again to USD 924/MT, a 2.12% decline from Q4. This softness was due to slower domestic consumption early in the year, especially as hygiene manufacturers focused on clearing stocks built up in late 2024.

Reduced export interest from China, where buyers continued to favor local alternatives, also weighed on US sales. Although operating rates at US mills remained steady, abundant supply in the market kept prices from recovering during the quarter. 

In Q1 2025, the Fluff Pulp market experienced a slight decline with prices falling to USD 1110/MT, down 1.8% from the previous quarter. The early-year slowdown in purchasing, following the New Year and inventory carryover from Q4 2024, led to reduced buying activity across the sector.

Import prices eased slightly as global availability improved, especially from the USA, where producers offered competitive rates to regain volume. Additionally, currency stabilization and smoother port operations in India helped maintain adequate supply at lower delivered costs. 

Fluff Pulp Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, Fluff Pulp prices dipped slightly to USD 944/MT, down 2.1%. This adjustment was expected, as many buyers reduced purchasing volumes to manage year-end inventories. The market also saw an increase in available supply from both domestic mills and global competition, particularly from South America, which added to the pressure. Meanwhile, some converters delayed orders in anticipation of better pricing in the new year, contributing to the overall cooling in trade activity. 

In Q4 2024, Fluff Pulp prices in India softened slightly to USD 1130/MT, a marginal 0.88% decline. This modest drop was linked to cautious buying behaviour from converters aiming to control year-end inventories and manage cash flows.

Abundant supply in the domestic market, as delayed shipments from earlier quarters finally arrived, also relieved some pricing pressure. Meanwhile, stable production from local hygiene manufacturers prevented any significant dip in demand but wasn’t strong enough to push prices up. 

In Q3 2024, Fluff Pulp prices in the USA jumped to USD 964/MT, marking a 6.4% increase from the previous quarter. The rise was mainly driven by higher export activity, as buyers in Latin America and the Middle East ramped up orders to meet peak hygiene product demand.

Unplanned mill outages due to hurricane-related weather events in the Southeastern USA also limited production and reduced immediate availability. On top of that, a favorable price spread over SBSK encouraged more dedicated Fluff production, but not quickly enough to meet rising demand. 

In Q3 2024, Fluff Pulp prices in India saw a sharp jump to USD 1140/MT, marking an 8.6% rise. The surge was primarily due to increased stocking by large hygiene product brands ahead of the festive season, which boosted procurement volumes.

At the same time, some global suppliers diverted shipments to Latin America and the Middle East, reducing the quantity arriving in India. Moreover, heavy monsoon rains in western India affected inland logistics, causing delivery delays and pushing prices higher in key consumption hubs like Mumbai. 

In Q2 2024, Fluff Pulp prices in the USA moved up modestly to USD 906/MT, rising by 1.57% from Q1. The increase was supported by seasonal demand growth from hygiene product manufacturers.

Some tightness in availability was also seen due to planned maintenance at swing mills, which temporarily reduced production. Furthermore, improved margins encouraged a few mills to shift capacity back to Fluff, helping stabilize prices after a soft start to the year. 

In Q2 2024, Fluff Pulp prices in India increased further to USD 1050/MT, up 1.94%. This gradual rise was supported by steady production activity in the hygiene and personal care sector, with manufacturers maintaining procurement to meet stable retail demand.

Freight costs also remained elevated due to longer transit times from the USA and Europe, contributing to overall pricing pressure. Additionally, importers faced delays in customs clearance and port congestion in Mumbai, which restricted prompt availability and added to cost pass-throughs. 

In Q1 2024, Fluff Pulp prices in the USA eased slightly to USD 892/MT, reflecting a 0.78% drop from the previous quarter. This decline came as US mills faced weaker export orders, especially from China, where substitution with local alternatives became more common.

At the same time, stable demand in mature markets like North America couldn’t fully absorb the available supply, leading to a buildup of inventories. Additionally, the narrowing price spread between Fluff Pulp and Southern Bleached Softwood Kraft (SBSK) Pulp made swing mills less inclined to prioritize Fluff, adding to overall supply pressure. 

In Q1 2024, Fluff Pulp prices in the domestic market of India (Ex Mumbai) rose slightly to USD 1030/MT, reflecting a 3% increase from the previous quarter. The price uptick was mainly driven by firm demand from hygiene product manufacturers, especially in urban centers, where rising awareness and usage of baby diapers and adult incontinence products supported consumption.

At the same time, the Indian Rupee weakened against the US Dollar, raising the landed cost of imported Fluff Pulp. Furthermore, limited import volumes arriving at key ports, as some suppliers prioritized other regions, led to tighter availability in the local market. 

Technical Specifications of Fluff Pulp Price Trends

Product Description

Fluff Pulp is a specialized bleached softwood kraft pulp designed primarily for absorbent products such as diapers, sanitary napkins, and adult incontinence pads. It is produced through the kraft process and carefully treated to achieve high purity, brightness, and fiber integrity. Fluff pulp consists of long, flexible fibers that provide excellent absorbency, fluid distribution, and pad integrity when air-laid or formed into absorbent cores. It is chemically refined to minimize fines and improve defibration, ensuring consistent performance in high-speed converting operations. It is known for its softness, bulk, and fast liquid uptake. Fluff pulp is also made from sustainably managed softwood sources, supporting eco-friendly hygiene product manufacturing.

Identifiers and Classification:

  • CAS No: 65996-61-4
  • HS Code: 47032900
  • Molecular Formula: Not applicable (natural polymeric mixture of cellulose)
  • Molecular Weight: Variable (approx. 162–300 kDa for cellulose polymer chains)

Fluff Pulp Synonyms:

  • Comminution Pulp
  • Absorbent Pulp
  • Fluffy Pulp
  • Fluff Cellulose
  • Air-Dried Fluff Pulp
  • Bleached Softwood Kraft Pulp (for absorbent products)
  • High Bulk Kraft Pulp (HBKP – Softwood)

Fluff Pulp Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • Untreated Softwood (Brightness ≥ 86%)

Fluff Pulp Global Trade and Shipment Terms

Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 90-100 MT

Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): Rolls covered with Plastic Film (Width: 19 inches)

Incoterms Referenced in Fluff Pulp Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
FOB Houston  Houston, USA  Fluff pulp Export price from USA 
CIF Genoa (USA)  Genoa, Italy  Fluff pulp Import price in Italy from USA 
CIF Hamburg (USA)  Hamburg, Germany  Fluff pulp Import price in Germany from USA 
CIF Shanghai (USA)  Shanghai, China  Fluff pulp Import price in China from USA 
CIF Nhava Sheva (USA)  Nhava Sheva, India  Fluff pulp import price in India from USA 
Ex- Mumbai  Mumbai, India  Domestically Traded Fluff Pulp price in India 

Quotation Terms refers to the quantity range specified for the Fluff Pulp being quoted or offered in a commercial transaction.

Packaging Type refers to standard packaging size commonly used for Fluff Pulp packing, ease of handling, transportation, and storage in industrial and commercial applications.

Fluff Pulp Manufacturers and their brands

Brand Name  Manufacturer 
Lighthouse 95  Domtar Corporation 

Fluff Pulp Industrial Applications

fluff pulp market share end use

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Fluff Pulp prices

Weakened Chinese Import Demand (2023–2024): Fluff Pulp exports from the USA to China declined as Chinese manufacturers increasingly adopted domestic or lower-cost alternatives. This reduced reliance on US-origin pulp pressured prices, especially during periods of abundant supply and weaker margins for swing mills shifting between Fluff and SBSK production. 

COVID-19 Pandemic Impact (2020): The global outbreak led to a sudden drop-in industrial activity, disrupting pulp logistics and operations at US mills. However, demand quickly rebounded as hygiene products like diapers and wipes became essential. This sudden demand surge led to short-term price spikes, followed by volatility as market conditions continuously shifted throughout the pandemic period. 

U.S.–China Trade War (2018–2019): Trade tensions between the USA and China created uncertainty in pulp exports. Chinese buyers hesitated on long-term contracts and looked to alternative sources due to fears of rising tariffs, which disrupted steady demand. The unpredictable trade environment caused erratic pricing and occasional inventory buildup in US warehouses.

These factors highlight the Fluff Pulp market’s sensitivity to global disruptions and energy price fluctuations, which have caused significant price volatility over the years. 

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global fluff pulp price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the fluff pulp market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, PriceWatch keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, PriceWatch provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With PriceWatch, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence fluff pulp prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely fluff pulp market data.

Track PriceWatch's fluff pulp price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.

Data Collection and Sources​

  • Real-Time Market Data: PriceWatch aggregates real-time pricing data from a diverse range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major Fluff Pulp production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire Fluff Pulp supply chain, from raw material availability (e.g., Southern pine wood, SBSK Pulp etc.) to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics. 

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact Fluff Pulp prices. Our analysis includes potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing. 
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or winter storms, on Fluff Pulp production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the U.S. Gulf Coast. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks. 
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., Healthcare & Hygiene Industry), to predict shifts in Fluff Pulp demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global Fluff Pulp production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to assess current supply availability accurately. 
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming Fluff Pulp production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps in predicting future supply trends and potential price stabilization. 

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including, Healthcare & Hygiene Industry. We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on economic indicators and industry developments. 
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and how they influence global Fluff Pulp pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations. 

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast Fluff Pulp prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power. 
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes.

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations. 
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice.

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Fluff Pulp pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions. 

Fluff Pulp Market Price Trend provided by PriceWatch is a base price and excludes VAT/Taxes, discounts, or offers. The information herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date indicated and is provided solely for the convenience of our customers as a reference for fluff pulp. PriceWatch disclaims any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy of results derived from this information. It is the sole responsibility of the user to assess the suitability of the product for their specific application. This document does not constitute an endorsement to use the product in violation of any applicable patent rights.

Fluff Pulp prices are mainly influenced by raw material costs, especially the price of Southern Pine used to make SBSK (Southern Bleached Softwood Kraft). Global demand from hygiene product manufacturers, such as diaper and sanitary pad producers, also plays a key role. In export markets, changes in demand from major importers like China, India, Germany, and Italy directly affect US pricing. Additionally, freight rates, mill operating decisions (such as switching between SBSK and Fluff Pulp), and inventory levels at both mills and buyers can lead to price fluctuations.

Logistics costs from the US to Europe—especially to Italy and Germany can significantly affect Fluff Pulp pricing. Factors like shipping delays through the Red Sea, Panama Canal congestion, or rising fuel costs can increase the delivered price of US-origin pulp. If freight rates remain high or unstable, buyers in Europe may explore alternate sources or renegotiate contracts, which can influence US mills to adjust their pricing to stay competitive in the EU market.

Swing mills, which can switch between producing Fluff Pulp and SBSK (Southern Bleached Softwood Kraft), play a critical role in supply flexibility. When Fluff Pulp prices are high, mills tend to increase its production, leading to more supply and potential price drops. Conversely, when margins favor SBSK, Fluff Pulp supply tightens, causing prices to rise. Procurement professionals should factor in mill behavior and pulp market dynamics to anticipate price changes.

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