René Muschter
Research Expert covering Industry & Mobility
Global pulp industry - statistics & facts
Despite growing concerns about the environmental impact of unsustainable pulp production practices, the demand for pulp, a natural fibrous material derived from wood and other cellulosic matter, is higher than ever. This material, used in the manufacture of many everyday paper products, like tissue and cartonboard, has seen global production climb since the 1960s, from just over 60 million metric tons in 1961 to roughly 189 million metric tons in 2024.
From wood to fiber: understanding pulp's raw materials
The main raw materials used for pulp and papermaking are wood, non-wood matter, and recycled wastepaper. Cellulose fibers are separated from these sources and treated to produce pulp. Wood pulp is the most consumed pulp worldwide and its output matches that required for paper production. Virgin fibers, which are derived from various types of pulpwood species, are classified into two families: hardwoods and softwoods. These are used to produce a variety of pulps, broadly categorized as mechanical, chemical, and semi-chemical pulp. Chemical pulp accounted for the largest share of global pulp for paper output in 2024. Market pulp refers to wood pulp that is produced and sold on the open market rather than being used internally by the pulp manufacturer. Global market pulp demand reached roughly 70 million metric tons in 2025, with Suzano holding the largest production capacity among global producers.
Who are the key players in global pulp production?
As of 2024, the Americas were the largest pulp-producing region, accounting for roughly 45 percent of global output. Much of this came from the United States, which was the largest pulp for paper producer in the world in 2024. Brazil also makes a significant contribution to the industry, having produced over 25 million metric tons of pulp that year. In recent years, China has also emerged as a major player in the market, with its share of global market pulp demand reaching over 40 percent in 2024.
Pulp trade dynamics
As well as being a major paper-producing nation, China is also the world's largest importer of wood pulp. In 2024, China accounted for roughly 30 percent of total global wood pulp imports. In comparison, the U.S., which is the second-largest importer, purchased around six percent of global imports. Brazil remains a major global supplier of wood pulp, shipping over a quarter of total exports in 2024. Other major exporters of wood pulp include Canada, the U.S., and Indonesia.
The global pulp industry's significance lies in its fundamental role in the production of everyday paper products. With recycled fibers now outpacing virgin fibers in global paper production, the industry is gradually shifting toward more circular practices, though continued growth in demand underscores the ongoing need for sustainable sourcing.
