Hardwood pulp prices remain at levels that prompt a likely correction. According to Valor Econômico, sources say that eucalyptus pulp should remain above US$ 800 per ton in the coming weeks, as a result of the maintenance of global stocks at reduced levels, bottlenecks in global logistics and the postponement of the entry of new capacities – Brazilian Arauco again postponed the start of the Mapa project, which was expected to start this month.
In the last week, according to Fastmarkets Foex, the net price of hardwood in China reached US$ 865.44 per ton, a stability in the monthly comparison. Softwood, on the other hand, reached US$ 930.89 per ton, with a decrease of US$ 22.20 in the month.
The price difference between the two types of fiber remains below normalized levels of US$120 per ton. Therefore, the spread is unlikely to remain so tight for long periods.
According to market analysts, the resale prices of eucalyptus pulp in China returned to retreat, falling below the value of imported fiber, which could lead to a correction in the import price.
In a report produced by analysts after meeting with the command of Klabin, the only Brazilian producer of the three types of pulp in the country, it was indicated that the company expects the “firm” maintenance of commodity prices above US$ 800 per ton by the end of the year.
“Price visibility is good, with volumes contracted for November at constant prices and December indicating stability,” they wrote.
