Suzano, the world’s largest producer of market pulp, has announced the successful operational startup of its new mill in Ribas do Rio Pardo, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. This facility is now the largest single pulp production line globally, marking the completion of one of Brazil’s most significant private investment projects.
The advanced facility boasts an annual production capacity of 2.55 million tonnes of eucalyptus pulp, boosting Suzano’s overall production capacity by more than 20% to 13.5 million tonnes annually. The project involved a total investment of R$ 22.2 billion (approximately US$4.3 billion), with R$ 15.9 billion (around US$3.1 billion) dedicated to the plant’s construction and R$ 6.3 billion (about US$1.2 billion) allocated for the development of the planting base and pulp outbound logistics. Suzano’s annual paper production capacity is 1.5 million tonnes, encompassing sanitary paper, printing and writing, and packaging lines, among other products utilizing pulp as a raw material.
“The successful completion of the Cerrado Project reflects the dedication and execution capability of each person involved in this grand and transformative project. It also attests to the culture of excellence that permeates the entire organization, masterfully led by Walter Schalka during his 11-year tenure here”, stated Beto Abreu, the newly appointed CEO of Suzano. “His vision and ambition have proven key in delivering a world-class mill within the planned budget. Crucially, this is also a project which has, at every stage, adhered to Suzano’s core focus on supporting sustainability and having a positive impact on local communities”, he added.
Aligned with Suzano’s ESG commitments to renewing life, the site is designed to meet global demand for sustainably produced eucalyptus-based products. The mill will use renewable biomass to generate, on average, 180 MW of surplus green power monthly, which will supply local suppliers and the national grid, enough to power a city of up to 2 million inhabitants. The mill’s proximity to Suzano’s eucalyptus farms will significantly reduce emissions and transportation time, with an average forest-to-mill distance of 65 kilometers compared to the company’s usual 150 kilometers. The plant will also produce sulfuric acid and hydrogen peroxide independently.
This project represents the largest investment in Suzano’s 100-year history and brings numerous operational and socio-environmental advancements. “The new plant will lay the foundations for future growth opportunities, such as the development of innovative new products from renewable raw material, and strengthen Suzano’s irreplicable business model”, said Walter Schalka, who recently concluded his tenure as CEO of Suzano after 11 years.
The completed project is set to have a significant impact on both the local community and the broader regional economy. The construction phase generated up to 10,000 jobs, and the operational mill will now provide 3,000 full-time jobs in the mill, forestry, and logistics operations.
In addition, Suzano is making substantial investments to improve local infrastructure and enhance access to quality education and healthcare. The company has contributed over R$ 300 million in construction and equipment for the municipality, including new housing units and a medical center, alongside voluntary social initiatives focused on sustainable development, income generation, and poverty reduction. These investments are distributed across seven action areas: education, income generation, rights protection, infrastructure, health, community relationships, and work.
