The pulp market - Italy

1.1 Definition and scope of study

Wood pulp is a material produced from plants, such as hemp, wood or flax. It is a raw material used in the production of paper, tissue and packaging.

Paper pulp can be obtained in two different processes. Firstly, through a chemical process at an elevated temperature to isolate the necessary elements (cellulose), or mechanically by grinding the raw material in a defibrator.

The pulp is then mainly used as tissue (toilet paper, handkerchiefs, napkins...), printing and writing paper, board and as specialty paper.

The global market is dynamic and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% until 2030. The main factors driving the growth of the global market are the gradual demand for tissue paper, mostly used in the kitchen or toilet.

Italy is also following the global trend with a growing market, due to the ever-increasing consumption of products made from this raw material. However, the Italian market is highly dependent on foreign trade, with over three million tons of pulp imported, compared to only 200,000 tons produced.

Given the ever-increasing importance placed by consumers on respect for the environment and sustainable development, manufacturers seem to be moving towards the use of more environmentally friendly materials, as these products can satisfy consumer demand while having a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, the Italian market has embarked on a path of innovation, particularly in terms of packaging, changing its production methods and taking advantage of the increasingly reduced use of plastic.