Recovered paper prices firm in Europe on tight collection, not demand

The Bureau of International Recycling's Q3 2026 European report finds recovered paper prices steady or slightly higher in Germany, France, Italy and the UK, driven by scarce collected fibre rather than stronger demand. European paper and board output fell about 1.6% in 2025 with early 2026 data still showing a year-on-year contraction. Spain diverges, with recovered corrugated prices under pressure from rising imports and ample supply despite higher domestic consumption.

Why this mattersA price rise built on fibre scarcity rather than demand recovery leaves mills exposed if collection volumes normalise in the fourth quarter.

• BIR's Q3 2026 European report was compiled by John Atehortua of REMONDIS Trade and Sales.
• Recovered corrugated (OCC) prices rose notably in September, led by UK export demand and low collection volumes.
• European paper and board production fell about 1.6% in 2025, with early 2026 indicators still showing year-on-year contraction.
• Spanish corrugated grade 1.05 average prices rose from EUR 73.17-73.62 per tonne in Q1 2026 to EUR 81.45-82.18 per tonne in Q2 2026, per Universidad Complutense de Madrid/RECIPAP data.
• Spain's recovered corrugated market remains under pressure from rising imports and abundant supply despite growing domestic consumption.
• BIR flags upcoming 2027 regulatory changes affecting waste trade as a factor operators must prepare for.

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