Pulp exports increased 50%, from 635 thousand tons in January 2013 to 958 thousand tons in January 2014. In the same period, 167 thousand tons of paper were exported, meaning a 0.6% growth in January. Therefore, balance of trade for the industry totaled $686 million in January, which means an increase of 27% compared to January 2013. Europe and China are still the main destinations for Brazilian pulp, which generates approximately 40% and 33% of the product’s foreign sales revenues, respectively. North America has an approximate 18% share.
In relation to paper, Latin America continues to be the main market for the product and accounts for approximately 51% of January’s export revenues, followed by Europe and North America, accounting for 16% and 15%, respectively. Shipments to North America increased 28% in the first month of the year, compared to January 2013. Paper sales in the domestic market have remained stable and totaled 463 thousand tons, with a slight variation of 0.2% compared to the same period in 2013.
The Brazilian Pulp and Paper Association (Bracelpa) is the association that represents the Brazilian pulp and paper industry before its audiences of interest. The association’s area of service encompasses sectorial negotiations, economic and industrial policies, environmental issues, climate change, and recycling, among others.