Zhong Guo Jing Ying Bao·2025-10-24 15:43Core Viewpoint - The domestic white cardboard market is experiencing a new round of price increases, with several paper companies announcing a price hike of 200 yuan/ton effective November 1, 2025, driven by rising costs, seasonal demand, and delayed new capacity releases [1][2]. Group 1: Price Increase Announcement - Multiple paper companies, including Bohui Paper and Nine Dragons Paper, have issued price increase notices, raising the price of white cardboard products by 200 yuan/ton [1][2]. - APP (China) also announced a price increase for all products produced by its subsidiaries, indicating a widespread trend among paper manufacturers [2]. Group 2: Factors Driving Price Increases - The price hike is primarily driven by three factors: continuous cost increases nearing the breakeven point for companies, the arrival of the traditional demand peak season ("Golden September and Silver October"), and delays in the release of new production capacity [1][2]. - Rising prices of raw materials such as waste paper and coal have significantly increased operational costs, leading to a divergence between current product prices and their actual value [2]. Group 3: Market Trends and Price Movements - The average market price for white cardboard in Q3 was 3981.78 yuan/ton, reflecting a 3.56% decrease from the previous quarter and a 9.32% year-on-year decline [3]. - The lowest market price was recorded at 3930 yuan/ton in late August, with a recovery to 3999 yuan/ton by the end of September, and a further increase to 4054 yuan/ton by October 23, marking a 1.38% rise since the end of September [3]. Group 4: Seasonal Demand and Supply Adjustments - The traditional consumption peak in September and October has led to a rigid increase in orders, particularly in the packaging sector, driven by the Mid-Autumn and National Day holidays [4]. - The overall inventory in the industry has decreased to a low level, and demand is expected to grow by 5.80% in Q4 [4]. - New production capacity releases have been adjusted, with a significant line in South China successfully launched, while another planned line by Nine Dragons Paper has faced delays, easing supply pressure [4]. Group 5: Future Market Outlook - The price of white cardboard is expected to rise further in October, with an overall average price forecasted to reach 4182 yuan/ton in Q4, representing a 5.02% increase [4].