Results of 2024 in the pulp and paper market

The pulp and paper market showed steady growth in 2024. Paper and cardboard production increased by 6.1%, key industry players increased output volumes, and exports reoriented to eastern markets.

Production and import substitution

According to Rosstat statistics, in the first ten months of 2024, domestic enterprises produced 8.8 million tons of paper and cardboard. The growth leaders were such types of products as tags and labels (+34%), kraftliner (+21.8%), and corrugated packaging (+6%). At the same time, the production of newsprint (–0.5%) and some types of pulp (–0.1%) showed a slight decrease.

Market leaders

“KAMA” increased the production of packaging cardboard (up to 237 thousand tons), which is 11% higher than the 2023 figure. Paper production increased by 7% and amounted to 89.5 thousand tons. Ilim Group produced 4 million tons of products in a year. Russian enterprises are mastering new technologies: the production of pharmaceutical cardboard and office paper under domestic brands has begun.

Export and new markets

Despite restrictions from Western countries, companies are actively developing Asian and Middle Eastern markets. The main partner is China, where half of the exports go.

The development of cooperation with China continues: Solikamskbumprom signed an agreement on deliveries via the Northern Sea Route, and Ilim Group signed a three-year contract with the Trade Development Committee of Guangdong Province. Export growth is expected in 2025, including due to the expansion of the Ust-Ilimsk Pulp and Board Mill capacities.

In addition to China, companies are developing supplies to India, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America, expanding the geography of exports and introducing new types of products to the market.

Personnel situation

The pulp and paper industry remains one of the most promising segments of the forestry complex. In recent years, the industry has seen an increase in wages, and by 2030, it is planned to create 27 thousand new jobs.

Environmental certification

After the departure of international certification systems, enterprises began to implement national standards. Market leaders have already received certificates of the new Russian forest certification system (NSLS), which confirms the legality of the origin of wood raw materials.