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Analysis
Pricing History
Methodology
Specifications
Glossary

Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft Pricing Assessment

  • Commodity Pricing

northern bleached softwood kraft Markets Covered: 

cnChina

northern bleached softwood kraft Markets Covered: 

  • Northern India northern bleached softwood kraft market price trend
  • Southern India northern bleached softwood kraft market price trend
  • Central India northern bleached softwood kraft market price trend

Global northern bleached softwood kraft Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast​

In Q1 2025, the NBSK market in China saw a modest recovery, with prices rising to USD 791/MT, up 3.53%. This gain came as demand gradually returned after the Lunar New Year slowdown, with mills resuming operations and restocking to support production needs. Tighter availability due to previous supply disruptions and fewer pulp shipments arriving on time also played a role in lifting prices. Additionally, expectations of stronger demand from North America and Europe encouraged Chinese mills to secure volumes early, contributing to the improved price trend. 

In Q4 2024, prices softened slightly to USD 764/MT, marking a 1.04% decline. Chinese mills entered a cautious phase, focusing on year-end destocking to reduce excess stock before closing books. Ongoing buyer resistance, where importers pushed back against higher prices, kept trade volumes moderate. Although shipping delays remained an issue, particularly from Europe, the abundant supply from both domestic and international sources limited any significant upward movement in prices. 

In Q3 2024, NBSK prices in China dropped again to USD 772/MT, a 4.34% decrease from the previous quarter. This pullback happened as the market faced pressure from increased global supply—especially new capacity coming online in Brazil and China, which intensified competition. A cooling in negotiations between international sellers and Chinese buyers led to a temporary price stalemate, with many buyers holding back or demanding discounts. Meanwhile, improved domestic supply and a buildup of inventories from earlier restocking further weakened price momentum. 

In Q2 2024, the NBSK market in China rebounded strongly, with prices climbing to USD 807/MT—up 10.25% from Q1. The price recovery was driven by tighter global pulp supply, especially after disruptions like the Finland strike and the Northwood mill shutdown in Canada, which limited availability. Higher shipping costs due to the Panama Canal drought and Red Sea diversions also added to price support by delaying deliveries and reducing immediate stock levels. On top of that, seasonal improvements in packaging and printing demand encouraged mills to restock, boosting overall market activity. 

In Q1 2024, NBSK prices in China dipped to USD 732/MT, reflecting a 2.27% decrease from the previous quarter. This early-year drop was mainly due to slower buying activity following the Lunar New Year, as many mills paused operations and focused on managing existing inventories. At the same time, trade uncertainty caused by ongoing global economic headwinds and talk of new tariffs on Canadian pulp made Chinese buyers more cautious in their purchasing decisions. Additionally, local overcapacity in the paper and board sector kept demand weak, putting extra pressure on import pricing. 

India northern bleached softwood kraft Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

northern bleached softwood kraft Parameters Covered: 

  • Softwood Logs
  • Wood Chips
  • Chemicals (e.g., Caustic Soda, Sulfates)
  • Water
  • China
  • USA
  • Germany
  • Tissue Paper, Printing Paper, Writing Paper, Packaging Paper, Cardboard (Paper Industry)
  • Paper Towels, Napkins, Facial Tissues, Envelopes, Paper Bags (Paper Products Industry)
  • Magazine Paper, Notebook Paper, Book Pages, Carton Boxes, Food Wrappers (Printing and Packaging Industry)
  • Copier Paper, Gift Wrap, Labels, Corrugated Boxes, Paper Cups (Consumer Goods Industry)
  • Kraft Paper, Folding Boxes, Notebooks, Flyers, Inserts (Office & Commercial Paper Industry)

northern bleached softwood kraft Parameters Covered: 

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global northern bleached softwood kraft price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the northern bleached softwood kraft 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 northern bleached softwood kraft prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely northern bleached softwood kraft market data.

Track PriceWatch's northern bleached softwood kraft 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.

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft prices

  • U.S.-Canada Trade War (2025): Tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Canadian pulp and Canada’s retaliatory measures disrupted supply chains. As Canada is a major global pulp supplier, reduced exports led to NBSK price spikes in Europe and Asia. Ongoing Red Sea shipping diversions and port strikes further increased logistics costs. 
  • Environmental Regulations in China (2020-2023): Stricter pollution control laws and sustainability rules forced several pulp and paper mills in China to reduce operations or shut down altogether. These changes affected domestic demand for imported NBSK, leading to lower buying interest, fluctuating prices, and cautious procurement across the market. 
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020–2021): During the early phase of the pandemic, pulp demand dropped due to reduced industrial activity and supply chain slowdowns. While tissue and hygiene product demand stayed strong, lower production in printing, packaging, and commercial paper sectors caused temporary price pressure on NBSK. 
  • Toxicity and Health Concerns (2015–2019): Growing concerns around chemical use in paper manufacturing and the perceived toxicity of some byproducts led to reduced use of certain pulp grades, including NBSK, in sensitive applications like food packaging and medical paper. As a result, demand from these segments weakened, contributing to slower market growth and price instability during this period. 

 

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

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 NBSK production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire NBSK supply chain, from raw material availability (e.g., Wood Chips, Caustic Soda, Sodium Sulfide 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 NBSK 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 NBSK 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., Paper industry, Printing and Packaging Industry), to predict shifts in NBSK demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global NBSK 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 NBSK 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, Paper industry, Printing and Packaging 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 NBSK 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 NBSK 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 NBSK pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions. 

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

CAS No

65996-61-4

HS Code

47032900

Molecular Formula

(C6H10O5)n
northern bleached softwood kraft

NBSK is a premium chemical pulp derived from softwood species like pine and spruce, characterized by long, slender fibers that provide exceptional tensile strength, brightness, and bonding properties. It is sustainably sourced and widely used in paper, packaging, and tissue production due to its versatility and high performance in manufacturing processes.

Packaging Type

200-250 kg per bale

Grades Covered

Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft_Ex-Shandong, Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft DEL East Coast, Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft_FD Hamburg

Incoterms Used

Ex-Shandong, DEL East Coast, FD Hamburg

Synonym

Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft, Cellulose (pulp), Bleached Kraft Pulp (Cellulose)

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

90-100 MT

Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.

DESCRIPTION             
Iso Brightness  %  89.2 ± 1.2       
*TAPPI DIRT COUNT (based on TAPPI.
Includes all particles >=0.1mm 		 PPM  0.6 ± 0.6       
Air Dry  %  90.0 ± 2.8       
Intrinsic Viscosity  cm3 /g  735 ± 49  0.5% CED cPs  15.2 ± 2.4 
Initial Freeness  (°SR)  19 ± 2  CSF (ml)  616 ± 36 
Initial Tear Factor  mN.m^2 /g  19 ± 4  100g_{f}.m^{2} /g  196 ± 42 
Initial Tensile  m  5260 ± 1080       
Initial Burst Factor  kPa m/g  3.4 ± 1.0  g/m^2   35 ± 10 
Initial Bulk  Cm^3 /g  1.7 ± 0.2       
pH     6.5 – 8.5       
Length Weighted Average Fibre Length  mm  2.5 – 3.5       
Length Weighted Average Fines  %  2.28 ± 0.58       

Applications

NBSK is mainly used in the paper and pulp industry as a key raw material for making strong paper products. It is widely used in the production of tissue paper, printing and writing paper, packaging materials, and specialty papers that require high strength and durability. Its long fibers make it ideal for blending with shorter fiber pulps (like hardwood pulp) to enhance tear resistance and overall paper quality. NBSK is also used in the manufacturing of hygiene products such as paper towels and napkins, as well as in paperboard and carton packaging, which are essential for the food, retail, and e-commerce sectors. 

Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft price 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 northern bleached softwood kraft. 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.

NBSK pulp prices are mainly driven by the cost and availability of softwood raw materials, global supply chain conditions, and demand from key end-use industries like tissue, printing, and packaging. Other major influences include production disruptions (e.g., mill closures or labor strikes), shipping constraints (such as delays at ports or rising freight costs), and fluctuations in global demand, particularly from China and Europe. Procurement heads should also consider currency exchange rates and environmental regulations that may affect mill operations and pricing.

Supply disruptions—such as plant shutdowns in Canada, strikes in Europe, or delays in shipping due to events like Red Sea route diversions—can significantly reduce the availability of NBSK and drive-up prices. These disruptions often lead to longer lead times and increased procurement costs. To manage this risk, procurement teams should monitor key pulp-producing regions, diversify their supplier base, and maintain buffer inventories, when possible, to avoid sudden price spikes.

The price outlook for NBSK in 2025 remains cautious but slightly optimistic, with moderate recovery expected due to post-holiday industrial demand and controlled production levels. However, ongoing freight challenges and uncertain global economic conditions could still impact pricing. Procurement heads should stay updated with market reports, analyse trends in wood chip and energy costs, and consider entering flexible contracts or securing volume-based deals to stabilize procurement costs.

Copyright 2025. All rights reserved. Nidhyana Price Watch Data Analytics Private Limited

Copyright 2025. All rights reserved. Nidhyana Price Watch Data Analytics Private Limited

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